Summer heat, more riding and potentially more travel, mean body water and electrolyte losses are increased through sweating, both of which need replacement. Water is a crucial component of our horses’ diets which can often be overlooked. Similar to us, they require water for many core bodily processes to function; therefore, providing clean, fresh water is essential. Some horses can be fussy with water intake, but there are a few things we can do to tempt them and increase hydration. Feeding a soakable mash will increase water intake and often these feeds have added flavour for palatability. D&H’s Health Mash is a palatable supplementary feed that increases water intake, whilst also being packed full of digestive support, immune support and fibre. Other soakable products include D&H’s Slim Down, a high fibre, palatable mix that is fully balanced in all essential vitamins and minerals. Slim Down is a low starch, sugar and calorie product that is ideal for those needing healthy weight loss this summer.
The key minerals lost through sweating are sodium, chloride, potassium, calcium and magnesium, otherwise known as electrolytes. Key functions include balancing pH levels within the body and regulating fluids. Imbalances, therefore, need to be taken into consideration and supplemented for, especially for those in intense work or that heavily sweat. D&H’s Electrolytes are balanced and flavoured, making them easy to incorporate into an existing diet on days when a little extra replenishment is needed for better recovery.
