Writing Rut? Um, yes. That "30 Day Challenge" thing I tried was a huge bust, lolz. Even with my pathetic bending of the rules I think I got to the fourth question or something. Blah. It's hard to write about my pony when so much else is going on job and family wise-both of which, by the way, are up in the air. Grandma is still in hospice, and (not to equate these things) I still don't know if I'll be working past October 1st.
Still, I want to write about Miles, because even with our challenges he is the "happy place" my brain goes to when I need to think of something good, something to look forward to.
First, a HUGE shout out to Aimee and Izzy - they were kind enough to ship us an Amigo Bug Rug that rubbed Izzy's shoulders but fits Miles like a very big, very covering, pretty light blue glove, sans rubbing. Combining this with going into a stall at night was exactly what he needed. He's getting much needed rest, along with extra calories, and is putting on weight again. I have to get a picture of him in his gear though-I never thought I'd own a horse I had to cover from head to hoof in the summer, but I totally get it now.
The mosquitoes seem to ebb and flow. Are you sick of hearing about them? Me too. I'm even sicker of being a prisoner to them. Sunday they finally ebbed, thanks to a super brisk breeze. It's a good thing because I was PISSED OFF-the day before was the very first time I had tacked Miles up, walked up to the arena, and turned right back around to the barn. Those little bastards were flying in my mouth, in my ears, to say nothing of what they were doing to my horse. It's been awhile since I've seen or felt Miles ready to explode, but he sure was. Poor boy.
ANYWAY, Sunday. I took the golden dogs out, and we had a short ride around the grounds and briefly down the trails. Ohhhh, it was lovely. There were a couple other riders milling about around the barn, and the dogs had a blast with everyone, though they aren't getting any younger. They were already pooped by the time I mounted so I didn't want to exhaust them by making them keep up with us on a mile long trail ride. When I did point Miles down his favorite trail though, the one that goes up a hill diagonally through a field, he started double timing it and wanted to break into a trot (and I'm sure a canter) so badly. I held him back and talked to him, and after he tossed his head and squealed he relented, begrudgingly. Y'all, he didn't want to turn back home - you know, where all the other horses were hanging out. I love this horse so much. I can't wait to canter him up that hill someday soon.
He can be a challenge to keep healthy and happy, for sure. I wish he wasn't soooo sensitive, for his own sake. I thought we were over the whole "hard keeper" issue until the mosquito invasion. At the same time, his issues are a nice distraction from everything else going on. It's horrible to admit; I like being able to focus on fixing something I have some control over, you know? However, between the fly sheet and stalling at night (not to mention, once again, the Durasole which has totally fixed his ouch-y feet. I can't recommend that stuff enough!!) I'm figuring things out slowly but surely.
Our ride before Sunday I actually popped Miles over a crossrail a couple times before we were chased out of the arena by insects (see a pattern?). It's no big deal to him at all anymore, which tells me maybe we can start working on lines and eventually cantering a course of three jumps or so. I have no desire to increase the heights of the jumps over 2 feet. My boy raced long and hard until he was 7 years old, and his joints have paid their dues. Besides, there's a lot of fun to be had with small jumps in the right configuration.
Finally, because SmartPak is awesome, their supplements in "SmartPaks" (individual containers) over $40 a month ship for free, and ANY order over $75 has free shipping as well-NO exclusions. I'm not a huge fan of any one company, with the exception of SmartPak. Everything, from their customer service to the quality of their products is far superior to anyone else in my (totally un-solicited, un-sponsored, unfortunately) opinion, horse-related or not. So, this free shipping business has given me the excuse to spend just a little more on Miles' supplements and put him on SmartFlex Senior Pellets. It's got the same (or more) levels of MSM and Glucosamine I've been giving him, with the addition of Vitamin C, Devil's Claw and Boswellia, not to mention pro and pre-biotics and another free-radical "scavenger" they call it. The very best part is it's pelleted, and he won't be losing half of it through his feed bag or having it left at the bottom of his feed pail. The reason I went with this particular supplement, even though Miles isn't technically "senior", is that I think his joints probably are:) It's also the highest rated supplement they have within a price range I can afford. My boy isn't "unsound" now, but it will be interesting to see if, for instance, it takes him a little less time to warm up, especially with winter coming. I'll keep you posted! More riveting reading about insects and supplements to come, no worries:)
Showing posts with label feedings. Show all posts
Showing posts with label feedings. Show all posts
Monday, August 29, 2011
Saturday, June 4, 2011
Mahhhhvalous Mr. M
Oh, we've not done anything crazy in the last week or so-but Miles has become Mr. Steady, Mr. Reliable, Mr. Pull Me Out Of The Pasture After A Week And Ride Me...which is exactly what I've needed lately.
Also, this horse LOVES jumping. Loves it. When he's being a little lazy (or it's like today, 85 degrees and muggy), I can point him at our little crossrail and he instantly becomes forward (but not rushy), and is now consistently jumping the obstacle from a trot and cantering away. I don't care that it's a teeny tiny...it's added so much to our rides. It's been lovely.
The not so great news is that he's lost a bit of weight in the last few weeks. He's quite sensitive to bugs and heat so I'm pretty sure that's all it is. I've also not been at the barn nearly as much as I should be this time of year (though I would if I could have) to feed him his Speshul Miles' Mish-Mash of beet pulp, alfalfa and apples. He's been scarfing it up, and it's great because it gets some additional water in him as well. Our barn owner is aware and he's getting a bit of ration balancer in addition to his regular grain-which we've switched (again), from Purina Strategy to Tribute Kalm and Easy. I actually really like everything I've heard about this feed and their rep was great, so I hope it helps. Miles is also nowhere near as ribby as this time last year, but I don't want him ending up there either. I'll keep you updated.
Item! I've been blogging about Miles officially for over a year now. I had no idea I would have enough nonsense to write about for so long, but there it is. Posting has slowed down considerably in the last month or so, but I've found these things ebb and flow. Also, I suck at taking pictures-I need to remedy this because sometimes you can write paragraphs on the right photo:)
Item! Looks like Miles and I will be featured in New Vocation's summer newsletter. I think it's just going to be a blip among other updates from adopters, but still I'm so excited!!! Even though we aren't one of their "success stories" that have won tons of ribbons, when I was looking at horses a story like ours is exactly the kind of thing I would have wanted to read. You know, about a horse who busts all the "Crazy OTTB" stereotypes, who is full of life and love, sound and barefoot, and who is a true partner to his totally smitten owner. I'll let you know when it's out.
Thank you to everyone who sent a comment or an email in the last few weeks. It's been tough, but you all bring a smile to my face. Happy June Everyone!! It's my favorite month, especially to ride. Enjoy YOUR partner.
Also, this horse LOVES jumping. Loves it. When he's being a little lazy (or it's like today, 85 degrees and muggy), I can point him at our little crossrail and he instantly becomes forward (but not rushy), and is now consistently jumping the obstacle from a trot and cantering away. I don't care that it's a teeny tiny...it's added so much to our rides. It's been lovely.
The not so great news is that he's lost a bit of weight in the last few weeks. He's quite sensitive to bugs and heat so I'm pretty sure that's all it is. I've also not been at the barn nearly as much as I should be this time of year (though I would if I could have) to feed him his Speshul Miles' Mish-Mash of beet pulp, alfalfa and apples. He's been scarfing it up, and it's great because it gets some additional water in him as well. Our barn owner is aware and he's getting a bit of ration balancer in addition to his regular grain-which we've switched (again), from Purina Strategy to Tribute Kalm and Easy. I actually really like everything I've heard about this feed and their rep was great, so I hope it helps. Miles is also nowhere near as ribby as this time last year, but I don't want him ending up there either. I'll keep you updated.
Item! I've been blogging about Miles officially for over a year now. I had no idea I would have enough nonsense to write about for so long, but there it is. Posting has slowed down considerably in the last month or so, but I've found these things ebb and flow. Also, I suck at taking pictures-I need to remedy this because sometimes you can write paragraphs on the right photo:)
Item! Looks like Miles and I will be featured in New Vocation's summer newsletter. I think it's just going to be a blip among other updates from adopters, but still I'm so excited!!! Even though we aren't one of their "success stories" that have won tons of ribbons, when I was looking at horses a story like ours is exactly the kind of thing I would have wanted to read. You know, about a horse who busts all the "Crazy OTTB" stereotypes, who is full of life and love, sound and barefoot, and who is a true partner to his totally smitten owner. I'll let you know when it's out.
Thank you to everyone who sent a comment or an email in the last few weeks. It's been tough, but you all bring a smile to my face. Happy June Everyone!! It's my favorite month, especially to ride. Enjoy YOUR partner.
Saturday, July 24, 2010
WAAA-HOOO!
14 pounds gained in a week, baby!!! Ok, I know it's not earth shattering, but I'm SOOOO relieved to see that tape move in the right direction:) I measured him many, many times, from both sides, and got the same result~phew. I'm so, so happy to know he's probably not sick, and just needed more food, AND is gaining weight thanks to his new regiment.
Of course, this is no time to relax and let up, as I'd like to see another, oh, 86 pounds or so on him; no big whoop! I hope this isn't a fluke, though next Saturday will tell us for sure.
It has been another ridiculously humid and hot string of days here in Mid-Michigan, so I don't know if I would have been riding much even if he was at a healthier weight. I'd like to take him out for a short hack this week though...I've sure missed it. Honestly, I think Miles has too-I know it's crazy but he really seems to enjoy having a job to do, and certainly having an outlet for his TB energy, even as he's not had an abundance of it under saddle (I'm talking about silly energy-he was plenty forward on our last ride). It has been kinda cool bringing him in every day though, with no expectations on either of us, enjoying each others' company while he eats and I groom and babble at him.
Brief product review and rave-I've been treating Miles' hoof soles with Tuff Stuff, hoof conditioner and hardener, which I grabbed on impulse at the store a couple weeks ago. This stuff does what it says...Miles' soles are MUCH tougher, no flaking, and he is much more comfortable walking on gravel and over stones. No rocks lodged in his feet either, hooray! Great for barefoot horses who may be a bit sensitive on tougher ground. Also-CHEAP! The first week I treated his soles about 3 times, every two days or so. Then I gave it a week and treated them again today. His soles were still nice and healthy, and fairly hard although we've had a TON of rain the last 2 days. I hate to think how soft his soles would have been without it. Anyway, two very enthusiastic thumbs up!
That's all the equine news for now~Miles couldn't have picked a better time to ease my mind, as it looks like our old dog Mojo, matriarch of our herd at home, needs to go to the vet on Monday to have herself checked out. Hopefully it's nothing, but her neck (lymph nodes?) feels very swollen and hard to me, and she's been making these weird guttural noises. Anyway, one animal at a time...Mojo is a tough old broad and I hope this is no big deal. We will see.
Enjoy your weekend everyone!! Thanks to each and every one of you that reads and comments, or of course just reads. It's cool to know I'm not just typing to see my own words:)
Of course, this is no time to relax and let up, as I'd like to see another, oh, 86 pounds or so on him; no big whoop! I hope this isn't a fluke, though next Saturday will tell us for sure.
It has been another ridiculously humid and hot string of days here in Mid-Michigan, so I don't know if I would have been riding much even if he was at a healthier weight. I'd like to take him out for a short hack this week though...I've sure missed it. Honestly, I think Miles has too-I know it's crazy but he really seems to enjoy having a job to do, and certainly having an outlet for his TB energy, even as he's not had an abundance of it under saddle (I'm talking about silly energy-he was plenty forward on our last ride). It has been kinda cool bringing him in every day though, with no expectations on either of us, enjoying each others' company while he eats and I groom and babble at him.
Brief product review and rave-I've been treating Miles' hoof soles with Tuff Stuff, hoof conditioner and hardener, which I grabbed on impulse at the store a couple weeks ago. This stuff does what it says...Miles' soles are MUCH tougher, no flaking, and he is much more comfortable walking on gravel and over stones. No rocks lodged in his feet either, hooray! Great for barefoot horses who may be a bit sensitive on tougher ground. Also-CHEAP! The first week I treated his soles about 3 times, every two days or so. Then I gave it a week and treated them again today. His soles were still nice and healthy, and fairly hard although we've had a TON of rain the last 2 days. I hate to think how soft his soles would have been without it. Anyway, two very enthusiastic thumbs up!
That's all the equine news for now~Miles couldn't have picked a better time to ease my mind, as it looks like our old dog Mojo, matriarch of our herd at home, needs to go to the vet on Monday to have herself checked out. Hopefully it's nothing, but her neck (lymph nodes?) feels very swollen and hard to me, and she's been making these weird guttural noises. Anyway, one animal at a time...Mojo is a tough old broad and I hope this is no big deal. We will see.
Enjoy your weekend everyone!! Thanks to each and every one of you that reads and comments, or of course just reads. It's cool to know I'm not just typing to see my own words:)
Thursday, July 22, 2010
Weighty Issues Update
I know I said I didn't want to post pictures, but I'm going to anyway. I took these last night.
I thought the sun was really cool in this shot...well, as cool as a picture can look taken off of a cell phone.
I think he was in a food coma for these-he had just finished his dinner of beet pulp AND grain (his pail was thisclose to overflowing) in addition to about a half scoop of alfalfa cubes.
He was very sweet yesterday. When he slowed down eating his alfalfa cubes, I picked up the pail and held it for him, just to see if he wouldn't eat a few more. He gave me this look-like, "I'm FULL already ma, but you look worried so I'll humor you." and so he did, with a few more bites. I'm sure I'm anthropomorphizing, but I swear some days he just gets me.
I hope he's ok. I hope his new feeding regiment is helping. It's sooooooooo tempting to weight-tape him everyday, but I'm resisting until Saturday, a week from the last measurement.
I wormed him with Ivermectin on Monday (all the horses at the barn are on the same worming schedule), but after talking to Amanda and doing some research I wish I would've waited and given him Zimectrin Gold, which also treats tapeworms. He did get a double dose of Strongid two months ago, which is supposed to also take care of tapeworms, but it's possible he could have acquired the problem since them. Anything is possible, sigh. Mr. Vet Student at the barn is going to check into it though and get back to me about dosing him with the Gold anyway. He's a great resource to have.
Anyway, riveting reading, I know! Cripes, I'm bored just typing this. I cannot WAIT until this is all behind us and we can get back to riding. I know it would probably be ok to ride him now, but I just don't feel good about it. You can't really see it in the pictures but his topline is a wee bony. Awesome, right? Patience, patience, patience. It's been less then a week that I've been tracking his weight and he's been on his new diet, but my god it feels like a month. I guess worry will do that to you.
Everyone go ride your horses if you're lucky enough to be able to. If not, hug them and love them and appreciate them for the individuals they are, and be grateful for everything they bring to your life. That's what I'll be doing.
I think he was in a food coma for these-he had just finished his dinner of beet pulp AND grain (his pail was thisclose to overflowing) in addition to about a half scoop of alfalfa cubes.
He was very sweet yesterday. When he slowed down eating his alfalfa cubes, I picked up the pail and held it for him, just to see if he wouldn't eat a few more. He gave me this look-like, "I'm FULL already ma, but you look worried so I'll humor you." and so he did, with a few more bites. I'm sure I'm anthropomorphizing, but I swear some days he just gets me.
I hope he's ok. I hope his new feeding regiment is helping. It's sooooooooo tempting to weight-tape him everyday, but I'm resisting until Saturday, a week from the last measurement.
I wormed him with Ivermectin on Monday (all the horses at the barn are on the same worming schedule), but after talking to Amanda and doing some research I wish I would've waited and given him Zimectrin Gold, which also treats tapeworms. He did get a double dose of Strongid two months ago, which is supposed to also take care of tapeworms, but it's possible he could have acquired the problem since them. Anything is possible, sigh. Mr. Vet Student at the barn is going to check into it though and get back to me about dosing him with the Gold anyway. He's a great resource to have.
Anyway, riveting reading, I know! Cripes, I'm bored just typing this. I cannot WAIT until this is all behind us and we can get back to riding. I know it would probably be ok to ride him now, but I just don't feel good about it. You can't really see it in the pictures but his topline is a wee bony. Awesome, right? Patience, patience, patience. It's been less then a week that I've been tracking his weight and he's been on his new diet, but my god it feels like a month. I guess worry will do that to you.
Everyone go ride your horses if you're lucky enough to be able to. If not, hug them and love them and appreciate them for the individuals they are, and be grateful for everything they bring to your life. That's what I'll be doing.
Sunday, July 18, 2010
Sigh...I Should Have Known
I'm really worried about Miles. He is continuing to lose weight. His topline looks horrible. I would say he was a 4 on the condition scale (with 5 being ideal) a month ago-he's now a 3.5 or even a 3.
I don't know what happened. Well, I have some thoughts and theories, but I really don't want to conjecture on my public blog. Really, the responsibility ultimately falls onto me. I'm his owner, I'm responsible for him. I should have been tracking his weight diligently with weight tape for a long time now. I know it's not a perfect way to estimate a horse's weight, but it IS a great way to monitor changes. I just assumed a lot of things this past month, one of them being that he was maintaining or even gaining a bit of weight. This past week it is obvious I have been waaaaay off track.
All I can do is move forward from here, and do the best I can for my boy from here on out. I weight-taped him for the first time on Saturday. I'll do it again this Saturday. I will be at the barn every day (except for Tuesdays and Thursdays, when Kyle has class) to feed him and monitor his outlook/behavior. Amanda and the barn owner will take care of him on the two days I can't.
I honestly don't even want to ride him at this point. While his energy, personality and general attitude still seem unchanged to me (thank goodness), I can't put my saddle on him (no matter how much padding I use) and ride him in good conscience right now. When I'm at the barn, I spend the whole time feeding him, grooming him, checking his attitude and movement with some groundwork and maybe a little lunging to make sure he's balanced and not stumbling, and then hand grazing him on some rich grass around the barn. Of course I started googling and now I'm scared of everything from EPM to cancer.
I don't even want to post his picture at this point. He doesn't look horrible-no protruding hip bones or anything like that, but he really doesn't look good either. Think good, happy, healthy, fat thoughts for my boy. I probably won't be posting again until I have something new to report, as our routine is not exactly good reading material right now:)
I just want him to be ok, whatever it takes. The only thing stopping me from getting the vet out tomorrow to do tests is that I want to be able to tell him, for CERTAIN, what Miles has been eating the last week or two. I am all over this thing now, no matter how horribly I've handled it prior to this past weekend. Wish us luck.
I don't know what happened. Well, I have some thoughts and theories, but I really don't want to conjecture on my public blog. Really, the responsibility ultimately falls onto me. I'm his owner, I'm responsible for him. I should have been tracking his weight diligently with weight tape for a long time now. I know it's not a perfect way to estimate a horse's weight, but it IS a great way to monitor changes. I just assumed a lot of things this past month, one of them being that he was maintaining or even gaining a bit of weight. This past week it is obvious I have been waaaaay off track.
All I can do is move forward from here, and do the best I can for my boy from here on out. I weight-taped him for the first time on Saturday. I'll do it again this Saturday. I will be at the barn every day (except for Tuesdays and Thursdays, when Kyle has class) to feed him and monitor his outlook/behavior. Amanda and the barn owner will take care of him on the two days I can't.
I honestly don't even want to ride him at this point. While his energy, personality and general attitude still seem unchanged to me (thank goodness), I can't put my saddle on him (no matter how much padding I use) and ride him in good conscience right now. When I'm at the barn, I spend the whole time feeding him, grooming him, checking his attitude and movement with some groundwork and maybe a little lunging to make sure he's balanced and not stumbling, and then hand grazing him on some rich grass around the barn. Of course I started googling and now I'm scared of everything from EPM to cancer.
I don't even want to post his picture at this point. He doesn't look horrible-no protruding hip bones or anything like that, but he really doesn't look good either. Think good, happy, healthy, fat thoughts for my boy. I probably won't be posting again until I have something new to report, as our routine is not exactly good reading material right now:)
I just want him to be ok, whatever it takes. The only thing stopping me from getting the vet out tomorrow to do tests is that I want to be able to tell him, for CERTAIN, what Miles has been eating the last week or two. I am all over this thing now, no matter how horribly I've handled it prior to this past weekend. Wish us luck.
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
Happy Bastille Day!
Tonight was my first ride on Miles since last Monday, over a week ago. The heat was unbearable last week (well, for me; we've established I'm a wuss, yes?). Then, Miles became Studly Do-Right over the weekend, as a new (very active, very small, very cute) Paso Fino arrived at the barn, and a new mare was introduced to the pasture next to him. Boy oh boy, did we have some fun times! I can't tell you how much I love that screaming whinny in my ear...like music, I tell you. In addition, the bugs have been bad, and I think that's been contributing to his "heightened" state, if you will. He wasn't horrible to work with, just distracto-man, so I did lots of ground work and lunging. It was actually good, and needed. I haven't done much lately and it really is fun to see his attitude change, his brain relax and his attention turn to me. Thanks Clinton Anderson:)
Today was still fairly warm, in the mid-80's, but I suppose we are in mid-July. Miles and LaShore have been switched back to their old pasture, which is great because it gets him away from the mares, and he was 100% amazing. Relaxed in the barn, and honestly the best I've EVER felt him under saddle. He was forward, happy to work, straight, relaxed, submissive, attentive, with no tension in his neck or back-I'm really not exaggerating, he was my lil' superstar. I don't think I'll be switching to the bit anytime soon, as I could bend him and do circles and serpentines, stops and rein-backs with no issues whatsoever. There was no teeth grinding and chewing or twisting of his neck (his favorite move when he's anxious and I'm asking him to stay on the rail, particularly to the right). We only worked about 20 minutes, because it had been so long since our last ride, and we were both hot. It was certainly long enough to make me grin ear to ear though, and bestow upon him many pettings and treaties.
What a good boy I have. I don't know what I did to deserve it, and I really am sorry if I sound, I don't know, like I'm bragging? Look, I know we have so much to work on, and if anyone saw us today I'm sure they wouldn't see what all the fuss was about. I just could FEEL such a difference today, and it was lovely. An excellent Bastille Day ride!
As for the weight issue, it turns out Miles hates soaked alfalfa cubes, siiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiigh. He doesn't mind them dry, but will stop eating them after about half a scoop. So, we're going to do a scoop of soaked beet pulp mixed with his SafeChoice grain (which is now up to a scoop and a half) every day. This is in addition to the FatCat supplement and a little oil, plus upping his hay a bit; I feel really good about this strategy. If there's no difference in a month, there WILL be reinforcements in the form of vets and dentists marched in. Honestly though, especially after his attitude today and our amazing ride, I can't believe there's anything wrong with him, other than a lack of calories. Oh Miles, if I could give you the fat off my ass I would:)
Anyway, that's where we are now. It feels pretty good, I don't mind saying. Thanks for the ride, Bubs.
Today was still fairly warm, in the mid-80's, but I suppose we are in mid-July. Miles and LaShore have been switched back to their old pasture, which is great because it gets him away from the mares, and he was 100% amazing. Relaxed in the barn, and honestly the best I've EVER felt him under saddle. He was forward, happy to work, straight, relaxed, submissive, attentive, with no tension in his neck or back-I'm really not exaggerating, he was my lil' superstar. I don't think I'll be switching to the bit anytime soon, as I could bend him and do circles and serpentines, stops and rein-backs with no issues whatsoever. There was no teeth grinding and chewing or twisting of his neck (his favorite move when he's anxious and I'm asking him to stay on the rail, particularly to the right). We only worked about 20 minutes, because it had been so long since our last ride, and we were both hot. It was certainly long enough to make me grin ear to ear though, and bestow upon him many pettings and treaties.
What a good boy I have. I don't know what I did to deserve it, and I really am sorry if I sound, I don't know, like I'm bragging? Look, I know we have so much to work on, and if anyone saw us today I'm sure they wouldn't see what all the fuss was about. I just could FEEL such a difference today, and it was lovely. An excellent Bastille Day ride!
As for the weight issue, it turns out Miles hates soaked alfalfa cubes, siiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiigh. He doesn't mind them dry, but will stop eating them after about half a scoop. So, we're going to do a scoop of soaked beet pulp mixed with his SafeChoice grain (which is now up to a scoop and a half) every day. This is in addition to the FatCat supplement and a little oil, plus upping his hay a bit; I feel really good about this strategy. If there's no difference in a month, there WILL be reinforcements in the form of vets and dentists marched in. Honestly though, especially after his attitude today and our amazing ride, I can't believe there's anything wrong with him, other than a lack of calories. Oh Miles, if I could give you the fat off my ass I would:)
Anyway, that's where we are now. It feels pretty good, I don't mind saying. Thanks for the ride, Bubs.
Thursday, July 8, 2010
Jack Sprat the OTTB
You know the old nursery rhyme..."Jack Sprat could eat no fat, his wife could eat no lean." That's all I can remember, actually (his poor wife; did she even have a name? Gawd, the patriarchy starts the kids early, doesn't it?;). So, 3 guesses who Jack is and who the wife is in Miles' and my scenario? Bet you don't need the last 2!
The day this becomes a weight loss blog just shoot me. It's something I struggle with and will always struggle with, but I'm not giving up the fight. What's important is that I am getting more fit and increasing my stamina, and Miles has no problems carrying me or working under me. He doesn't flinch when I mount and has shown absolutely zero signs of having back problems...believe me, I am ever vigilant for any signs of his discomfort, and so far so good. Besides, I watch reining on RFD-TV every now and then, and my goodness there are some small horses working very hard under some large men and their heavy tack. In other words, this isn't about me.
This is my boy in October 2009, about a month and a half after I adopted him. Obviously too thin, the thing that concerns me most is his topline. However, he came to us underweight, and was VERY stressed for most of September; he may have even lost weight in his transition from New Vocations to my barn, so that's mostly what I attribute it too. He was on Du-Mor Weight Gain supplement at this point, which was pretty much worthless to him. I switched him to CocoSoya (oil supplement), he settled in and got a turnout buddy, and this was him in January 2010.
Miles-doesn't know what all the fuss is about.
Also please to note: shoulders in this photo are not as straight as they appear:-) Good lawd that thing looks practically vertical!
The day this becomes a weight loss blog just shoot me. It's something I struggle with and will always struggle with, but I'm not giving up the fight. What's important is that I am getting more fit and increasing my stamina, and Miles has no problems carrying me or working under me. He doesn't flinch when I mount and has shown absolutely zero signs of having back problems...believe me, I am ever vigilant for any signs of his discomfort, and so far so good. Besides, I watch reining on RFD-TV every now and then, and my goodness there are some small horses working very hard under some large men and their heavy tack. In other words, this isn't about me.
This is my boy in October 2009, about a month and a half after I adopted him. Obviously too thin, the thing that concerns me most is his topline. However, he came to us underweight, and was VERY stressed for most of September; he may have even lost weight in his transition from New Vocations to my barn, so that's mostly what I attribute it too. He was on Du-Mor Weight Gain supplement at this point, which was pretty much worthless to him. I switched him to CocoSoya (oil supplement), he settled in and got a turnout buddy, and this was him in January 2010.
MUCH improved. Yes, he had a winter coat, but not much of one as he was blanketed and coming into a stall at night. I would've liked another 50 pounds on him, but his topline and neck look great.
June 2010. Sigh. He's just...not where I want him. Of course, I still think he is absolutely stunning:) And yes, he had just had a bath and was still slightly damp, and the early evening sun was just radiating off of him, accentuating those TB ribs of his. He's not as bad as the October 2009 picture (no bony topline, not as "tucked under"), but his neck isn't as filled in as the January 2010 picture either (though he is in better shape with more muscle than in January). If it were October instead of July I'd be very concerned, actually.
So what have I been doing? He was getting a beet pulp mash about 4 times a week up until a couple of weeks ago, when he and LaShore were moved to a much grassier pasture. Great, great thing, but he stopped being interested in eating the beet pulp whatsoever. He and LaShore have been getting 1/2 bale of hay am and pm, and he's getting about 9 lbs of Nutrena Safe-Choice a day, divided up am and pm. He has been on CocoSoya for the last couple of months as well. I dunno how much that stuff is actually helping him put on weight though. Yes, his coat looks great, but that's not what I'm buying it for! I've also found if it's not REALLY mixed in his feed, he won't eat the really oil-soaked parts of his grain....sigh.
New plan...I picked up some alfalfa cubes today. He's going to be getting about 5 lbs soaked a day (please please please let him eat it!). I also ordered Fat Cat supplement from SmartPak. It's economical and got great reviews on their website.
If none of this seems to make a difference by late August, I guess I will have to call the vet. Trust me when I say he's getting enough food, both forage and grain (although I wish he could get a mid-day feeding of hay as well, it's not possible unless I go out there and do it. Judy, LaShore's owner, does often toss the boys additional hay after she's done riding in the morning, however). He had his teeth floated 6 months ago. Current on his de-worming, and in fact has received double doses of some wormers in the past 9 months as recommended by the 4th year MSU vet student who boards at the barn with his wife. He has no signs of ulcers, other than being a wee bit ticklish on his belly near his sheath area. He isn't cinchy in the least, thank goodness. His attitude is great, his appetite is good (although I noticed the heat has slowed it down a bit these last few days, the weather is supposed to break this weekend). I hope it won't come to this! If it does, however, we will still have some time before the weather gets really cold to treat whatever needs to be treated (if anything) or try something different.
I don't expect him to look like a quarter horse. I just want him to be healthy. If he becomes ill, god forbid, I want him to have some fat stores to draw on.
Anyway, not the most stimulating post, I know, but it's what's been on my mind when it comes to Miles. By the way, I stayed for about an hour of the show (and it was HAWT). I hosed Miles down and took him up to graze and watch the festivities. He was interested but not scared, although he did shy (so mildly I wouldn't even call them spooks) a couple of times. Apparently I am a huge wuss puss because they had a great turnout! The class(es) we would've entered had only 2 riders in them, however. Ah well. NEXT time, come hell or high water, we're getting out there! Miles, ribby or not, is too damn cute not to show off:)
So what have I been doing? He was getting a beet pulp mash about 4 times a week up until a couple of weeks ago, when he and LaShore were moved to a much grassier pasture. Great, great thing, but he stopped being interested in eating the beet pulp whatsoever. He and LaShore have been getting 1/2 bale of hay am and pm, and he's getting about 9 lbs of Nutrena Safe-Choice a day, divided up am and pm. He has been on CocoSoya for the last couple of months as well. I dunno how much that stuff is actually helping him put on weight though. Yes, his coat looks great, but that's not what I'm buying it for! I've also found if it's not REALLY mixed in his feed, he won't eat the really oil-soaked parts of his grain....sigh.
New plan...I picked up some alfalfa cubes today. He's going to be getting about 5 lbs soaked a day (please please please let him eat it!). I also ordered Fat Cat supplement from SmartPak. It's economical and got great reviews on their website.
If none of this seems to make a difference by late August, I guess I will have to call the vet. Trust me when I say he's getting enough food, both forage and grain (although I wish he could get a mid-day feeding of hay as well, it's not possible unless I go out there and do it. Judy, LaShore's owner, does often toss the boys additional hay after she's done riding in the morning, however). He had his teeth floated 6 months ago. Current on his de-worming, and in fact has received double doses of some wormers in the past 9 months as recommended by the 4th year MSU vet student who boards at the barn with his wife. He has no signs of ulcers, other than being a wee bit ticklish on his belly near his sheath area. He isn't cinchy in the least, thank goodness. His attitude is great, his appetite is good (although I noticed the heat has slowed it down a bit these last few days, the weather is supposed to break this weekend). I hope it won't come to this! If it does, however, we will still have some time before the weather gets really cold to treat whatever needs to be treated (if anything) or try something different.
I don't expect him to look like a quarter horse. I just want him to be healthy. If he becomes ill, god forbid, I want him to have some fat stores to draw on.
Anyway, not the most stimulating post, I know, but it's what's been on my mind when it comes to Miles. By the way, I stayed for about an hour of the show (and it was HAWT). I hosed Miles down and took him up to graze and watch the festivities. He was interested but not scared, although he did shy (so mildly I wouldn't even call them spooks) a couple of times. Apparently I am a huge wuss puss because they had a great turnout! The class(es) we would've entered had only 2 riders in them, however. Ah well. NEXT time, come hell or high water, we're getting out there! Miles, ribby or not, is too damn cute not to show off:)
Miles-doesn't know what all the fuss is about.
Also please to note: shoulders in this photo are not as straight as they appear:-) Good lawd that thing looks practically vertical!
Friday, June 25, 2010
Show Time!
Haha, of course not for me! The dressage show my barn is putting on is tomorrow-I'll be there bright and early to do the announcing for the morning. Ugh, I hope I don't blow it. Originally I was going to scribe in the afternoon but something came up. Still, I'm looking forward to it. You never know, maaaaaaaybe next year I won't be volunteering because I'll be riding. Maaaaaaaaybe.
I hope to have enough time after I'm done announcing to take Miles out to see the sights. If he has his wits about him I'd love to hop on and ride him for a bit before I have to leave.
I ran out to the barn at lunch today to feed him his beet pulp and clean him off a bit before tomorrow (WHY did I bother with the bath less than two days ago?). He and LaShore have now moved to the field next to their pasture (which is VERY grazed down) during the day, and this field has LOTS more grass , so I'm super happy about that and hope that will help cover those ribs of his even more. It's probably just a temporary situation, but I feel much better knowing he's got access to grass all day. Poor LaShore is a founder risk, so we have to watch him (and he's the reason they couldn't be out on rich grass before now), but honestly it's a small price to pay because those two get along SO well. After what happened with Ebony (being kicked) and Cody, another horse at the barn that went seriously lame after being kicked by a herd mate, having my boy out 24/7 with a horse that he can play with and yet I trust not to hurt him (and vice versa!) is invaluable.
Back to this afternoon-even with all that yummy grass he was eating at the far end of the field, as soon as he saw me he ran down to the gate, and if horses could smile I'm quite sure he would have been. I'm so, so lucky to have him-he made it almost impossible to go back to work;) He definitely makes it impossible for me not to grin like an idiot and laugh out loud at this horse I love so, so much.
Update: Whew, I am pooped! Super fun time this morning though, and I only announced the wrong entry once and quickly corrected it! Miles was a superstar-I had very little time so I dragged him out of the field, brushed him, threw the tack on him and led him into the chaos. He was looky and a bit tense under me, but other than that was happy to take in the sights and sounds without overreacting. I think we might have to enter our first show in July after all-gulp.
I hope to have enough time after I'm done announcing to take Miles out to see the sights. If he has his wits about him I'd love to hop on and ride him for a bit before I have to leave.
I ran out to the barn at lunch today to feed him his beet pulp and clean him off a bit before tomorrow (WHY did I bother with the bath less than two days ago?). He and LaShore have now moved to the field next to their pasture (which is VERY grazed down) during the day, and this field has LOTS more grass , so I'm super happy about that and hope that will help cover those ribs of his even more. It's probably just a temporary situation, but I feel much better knowing he's got access to grass all day. Poor LaShore is a founder risk, so we have to watch him (and he's the reason they couldn't be out on rich grass before now), but honestly it's a small price to pay because those two get along SO well. After what happened with Ebony (being kicked) and Cody, another horse at the barn that went seriously lame after being kicked by a herd mate, having my boy out 24/7 with a horse that he can play with and yet I trust not to hurt him (and vice versa!) is invaluable.
Back to this afternoon-even with all that yummy grass he was eating at the far end of the field, as soon as he saw me he ran down to the gate, and if horses could smile I'm quite sure he would have been. I'm so, so lucky to have him-he made it almost impossible to go back to work;) He definitely makes it impossible for me not to grin like an idiot and laugh out loud at this horse I love so, so much.
Update: Whew, I am pooped! Super fun time this morning though, and I only announced the wrong entry once and quickly corrected it! Miles was a superstar-I had very little time so I dragged him out of the field, brushed him, threw the tack on him and led him into the chaos. He was looky and a bit tense under me, but other than that was happy to take in the sights and sounds without overreacting. I think we might have to enter our first show in July after all-gulp.
Sunday, May 30, 2010
Oy, the HEAT already
Um, obviously these pictures were taken on another planet, far far away. To counteract the heat, please to enjoy these pics of Miles and LaShore cavorting in the snu snu. Seeing these makes me want to smack my own self for kvetching about the weather!
Still, it's going to be like 90 degrees today. Since I can rarely get myself to the barn before noon (herd to feed, water and walk, don't forget. I should also probably shower, maybe.), no riding today. I'll still stop out to see my boy and throw some hay in the pasture, as well as feed him his beet pulp mash. Extra calories for my lean thoroughbred, and a good way to get some additional water in him.
Great ride yesterday...lovely canter in both directions, and a relaxing cool-out walk around the barn property. It was hot, and I was blessed with my first sunburn of the year, whoo hoo!
Happy Sunday!
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