On September 9, 2020, Stacie was Helena Harris’s guest on episode 48 of the Stall and Stable show (Horse Radio Network), talking about caring for rescued, adopted, and transitioning horses.
Stall and Stable, EP 48: Helping Horses in Need
Podcast conversation with Helena Harris, September 9, 2020
This article is provided for general information only. It is not a substitute for veterinary examination, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a licensed veterinarian before beginning any treatment or making decisions about your horse’s care.
The excerpts below are transcribed from the episode and lightly edited for clarity. The full episode is linked at the foot of this page.
On quarantine, and letting the horses talk first
The first thing you’re going to consider is the physical wellbeing of your current horses. Making sure your new horse is quarantined and healthy before you turn him out with the rest of your group is important. Most people don’t have huge places, so there is probably going to be some visual and some voice contact, and that lets the horses have a conversation. It would be like having a phone conversation before we meet for coffee. That’s probably a good idea for the mental wellbeing of all the horses.
On turning out a thin horse too soon
If you do acquire a horse at a body condition score of one or two, or even three, they will not do well if you turn them out with your healthy horses. They can’t defend themselves; they can barely hold themselves up. They are not going to feel comfortable being able to lay down and rest, especially if you have more than just one other horse at home.
On refeeding syndrome
What happens with refeeding syndrome is that the horse’s body has been using its own fat and muscle reserves for energy. The switch to relying mostly on carbohydrates, like horses are designed to do, has to be done slowly, because the sugars in the hay will cause the body to release insulin, and there can be a very vicious cycle. The thinner the horse is, and the longer the starvation has occurred, the higher the risk of refeeding syndrome.
The most research has been done at UC Davis, and that program emphasizes beginning with alfalfa, because alfalfa is high in protein and generally readily available. Our goal in the first week to two weeks is just resetting the horse’s system.
Listen to the whole conversation at Stall and Stable: EP 48, Helping Horses in Need. The Ultimate Guide for Horses in Need is available directly from Stacie or from Trafalgar Square Books.