Supplement-Feeding Tips
Before you begin feeding your horse a hoof supplement, accurately determine your horse's weight. Don't guess. Use a weight tape or better yet, a livestock scale.
Then educate yourself on the proper dose for your horse's weight. Consult the manufacturer's literature and website. Some supplements have a loading dose and a maintenance dose.
Here are several tips for supplement success:
• Mark your calendar. Put an easy-to-read calendar in your barn or feed room. Mark the date you began your supplementation program, along with the name of the supplement and amount given. Every week, mark any progress you see.
• Use a special scoop. To assure the correct dosage, use the scoop supplied by the manufacturer, or use one that's the same measure. Mark the scoop with your name, your horse's name, and the name of the supplement. Put the scoop on a string so it won't be lost.
• Get on a schedule. Feed the supplement at the same time every day, so your horse gets the correct dose over 24 hours, and stay on schedule. If it helps, write a big red checkmark on your calendar every time you dose your horse.
• Make it easy. Check with Smart Pak Equine (800/461-8898; www.smartpak equine.com) to see whether your chosen supplement is available in pre-measured packets. Such packets enhance ease of dosage and are handy when you go on an overnight camping trip.
• Watch your horse eat. Is he eating around the supplement? If so, change to a more palatable formulation
