Does your horse need an electrolyte supplement during these hot summer months?

He does if he sweats profusely for longer than an hour per day—he could loose enough electrolytes to face fatigue, decreased stamina, weakness, overheating. Muscle cramping, colic, heart trouble, and a host of other problems. Here are some tips for adding electrolytes safely:

• Avoid giving him electrolytes if he’s refusing food, water, or is showing signs of colic (or any of the problems listed above). He needs veterinary attention.

• Consult your vet first if your horse has Hyperkalemic Periodic Paralysis (HYPP). Electrolytes could make his potassium imbalance worse.

To make your own supplement, dissolve in four gallons of water:

• 1 tablespoon table salt
• 1 tablespoon Morton’s salt substitute
• 2 TUMS extra-strength, crushed
• 500 mg magnesium oxide tablets, crushed (look for them in the vitamin section of your pharmacy)
• 1 3-oz. box of flavored Jell-O powder OR ¼ cup of honey or corn syrup