horsesforlife

The rise in gas prices, the use of corn for ethanol, and other economic factors caused a large jump in grain prices in the last few years.  In
Pennsylvania, the price went from $7.00 to $11.00 per bag in the last four years.   Ask yourself these questions and see if you are getting the biggest bang for your dollar.

1.  
   1.  Do you take your horse to competitions on a regular basis?  If not, if he  still on that extra ration of grain or that great training formula?  Or is he no longer a colt and on that special formula?
   2. Why do you frequent your feed store of choice?  Is it because of low prices, locale, or habit?   Even if it is because of low prices, it doesn’t hurt to take out the phone book, and call around.  I saved .50 cents per bag and around five miles each trip.
   3. Is your horse having trouble eating the grain you are buying?  Is age a factor, or is he due for his annual dentist appointment?  Try pelleted feed and schedule that dentist appointment. 
   4. Does your feed store allow you to buy in bulk?  Cents add into dollars. 
   5.  Try grain with a lower the percentage of fat.  For example, you could change your 12% sweet feed into 10%.  Or buy higher percentage and try feeding less grain.  Keep in mind, that horses are individuals and what works for one may not work for another. 

When changing a horse’s feeding habits, always introduce the new feed slowly.   I hope these questions sparks a fire and helps you stay within budget.  Happy Riding!!

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