This message is from: "Monica Spencer" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Brigid M Wasson said:
> Bless you for taking on this problem mare. I'll tell you a secret: the > "difficult" ones often turn out to be brilliant and loving after forming a > relationship of trust. You have the right attitude, and you're going the > right way. > > Most of my experience is with Fjords, so it's hard for me to think what is > different about their needs. I suppose you could think of them like ponies? > Tough, independent, clever, can't be forced or frightened into doing things. Gail Russell said: > Don't forget > probiotics in her food -- this will help digestion immensely. > > Is it possible she has a chronic form of sand colic? The loose bowels would > be symptomatic, though the smell sounds more like a metabolic problem??? > > Have you heard of clicker training? Thanks. I guess you're right about the difficult ones sometimes turning out to be wonderful - it's happened to me before so I'm certainly open to the possibility. Friska certainly is tough, independent and clever and I'm sure would never stand for heavy coercion. Probiotics aren't available around here. However, my vet highly recommends a product called "Ration Plus" which is not actually a probiotic but it encourages a healthy gut ecology. Apparently it has shown good results in clinical trials. I've been giving it to her. Ground flax, too. To test for sand in the gut, I would put some poo in a jar with water and swish it around to see if sand settles out, yes? Oooh I can't wait! I have heard of clicker training but I've never done it. It's a good idea, though, because it would be a nice positive thing I could do with her. Thanks again for the suggestions. Monica in Nelson, BC
