FEEDING.
KEEPING OUR HORSE’S AIRWAYS CLEAN AND HEALTHY IS A VITAL STEP IN ENSURING A GOOD LEVEL OF HEALTH, WELLBEING AND PERFORMANCE. STEPHANIE BATEMAN DISCOVERS WHAT MANAGEMENT AND FEEDING ROUTINES OWNERS CAN FOLLOW TO ENSURE OPTIMUM RESPIRATORY ROBUSTNESS.
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feeding
BREATHING-FRIENDLY
ur horses are exposed to a variety of respiratory irritants including dust and mould spores, but what damage can they do and why is it important to limit exposure? “Dust and moulds contained within feed, forages and bedding can cause hypersensitivity within the lungs,” explains Lucy Woods of Saracen Horse Feeds. “Providing dampened or steamed forage, as well as using dust-extracted bedding are simple management techniques that will help to reduce exposure to particles that could increase the risk of respiratory disease.” Providing as much turn out as possible is also recommended, as is avoiding mucking out or sweeping yards when the horse is in t e stable and feeding fro t e floor if possible, to encourage natural respiratory drainage. “In addition, feeding pelleted feeds which can be dampened or soaked, as well as using a ig uality c a ill el to furt er reduce the dust level,” adds Lucy. Feed manufacturers have a responsibility to provide good, quality ingredients that are free from dusts and moulds. “At Saracen Horse Feeds, quality control is ta en ery seriously fro eld to feed bag,” Lucy tells. “This starts with suppliers being selected to a required standard, with raw materials being screened to ensure that t ey eet s eci ed re uire ents suc as for moisture and dust. When processed, further measures are used such as storage bins being regularly dust extracted, as well as continuous screening for mycotoxins and other contaminants.” LEFT: EATING AT GROUND LEVEL HELPS TO DRAIN IRRITANTS FROM THE HORSE’S UPPER RESPIRATORY TRACT, AIDING BREATHING.
