When Cathy, Lianne, and the rest of our group of 6 ventured out on our first "real" trailride down in the MO hills, it scares me to think of all the things we DIDN'T know. For one thing, it was years before anyone even mentioned the word "electrolytes" to us. Even today, there are varying opinions on their use such as when to begin administering them, using them at all, what brand, etc.
Let me be very frank in stating that my use of electrolytes is based on what has worked best for me and my horses over the years. I do not claim to be an expert; however, I have been able to keep my horse healthy and hydrated during some very strenuous riding experiences. I feel that by sharing what I've learned over time, that perhaps some rider may be able to avoid having a horse get sick when the situation perhaps could've been avoided altogether.
First of all, I will include a bit of factual information about keeping a horse's system chemically balanced under the stress of a hard work-out or trailride:
Horses depend on certain electrically charged minerals to maintain the balance and flow of vital body fluids, the transmission of nerve impulses, and the healthy function of the muscles and the circulatory system. These minerals are called electrolytes. Their positive and negative charges help to control the body’s pH (acid/base) balance and the transport of nutrients and waste products in and out of the cells. Because some electrolytes, such as sodium and chloride, are in short supply in basic feedstuffs like hay and grain, it is important to provide a salt block for horses to use on a free choice basis. However, during periods of training, performance (like trailriding), and high ambient temperatures and humidity, horses lose large quantities of electrolytes through sweat. In these conditions, horses, like human athletes, need additional electrolytes added to their daily diet.
Here is what has worked for me: I do not administer electrolytes prior to the trailering simply because my horse does not drink well out of a bucket during transport. Part of the reason for giving them is to induce drinking; I feel it is detrimental to give electrolytes and then not have water readily available due to the long trailer drive. I know that there are riders who disagree with this, but again, this is what has worked "for us".
Here's what you need:
- tub of powdered electrolytes
- plunger with removable cap on end (I use an old paste wormer tube.)
- applesauce (plain, NOT chunky!) in the small containers
- empty plastic drinking cup
- spoon
I generally use a generous heaping scoop (A scoop comes with it; directions are also on the bucket.) if the weather is warm and my horse has sweat considerably. I put the powder into a small drinking cup, add enough applesauce (about a spoonful) to dissolve the powder. Mix well. Pour this into the tube with the cap on the tip, leaving enough space for the plunger to fit into the barrel. Now remove the cap and place the barrel on top of your horse's tongue and to the back of his mouth; after pushing the plunger all the way to empty the barrel, I put my horse's head up a bit so that he cannot slobber it back out. I only hold him like that for about 30 seconds.
It doesn't take much practice to mix the right consistency.
MOST IMPORTANTLY: Keep plenty of fresh water available at all times. Check your horse's bucket frequently; remember, the salts enhance his thirst. You want your horse to be as hydrated as possible during your trailride.
ALSO A MUST: It is a good idea to keep a small salt block in a rubber feedpan where your horse has free access to it at all times. Some horses make better use of it than others; Little Man thinks his salt block is a stall toy to throw around!
TIPS:
- The small containers of applesauce are the greatest! They cut down on waste and don't need refrigerated till after opening. One small container is good for about 5 or 6 doses.
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