Success Story: 90 Days on a Whole Food Diet, by Janie Ober
— by Janie Ober —
I adopted this horse in 2016 after seeing him one time in a western saddle; a standout in the crowd, an obvious diamond. Sunburned and rough around the edges, his eyes were full of kindness. After some internet detective work, I learned his name, age and previous occupation. My 16-year-old diamond turned out to be a seasoned show hunter, a WEF winner, talented, brave and ready for a new home. I have documented his return to working condition, and the pictures below chronicle our progress in three short months. With help from Tigger Montague at BioStar and my veterinarian, I am able to attribute his returning good heath to a whole food diet, and proper exercise and conditioning.
Day 1 after a bath:
Diet: (Fed 4 times a day)
• BioStar Optimum EQ powder
• Renew Gold
• Chaffhaye
• Alfalfa pellets
• Flax seed
• Timothy/Orchard grass hay
• Light work 5-6 days a week
• Turnout 5-6 hours a day
Day 30 after a bath:
Diet components remain consistent, 4 meals a day
• Work load increased slightly 5-6 days a week
• Dewormed
• Turnout 5-6 hours a day
Day 60 after a bath:
Diet components remain consistent, 3 meals a day
• Work load increased to full flat work and some small cavalettis 5-6 days a week
• Food ration reduced, lunch meal is eliminated
• Turnout 5-6 hours a day
Day 90:
Diet remains consistent, 3 meals a day
• Work load increased to full flat work and jumping courses 5-6 days a week
• Food ration reduced, alfalfa pellets only at night check
• Turnout 5-6 hours a day
In the last 8 years, I have had nearly 100 horses on a whole food diet; BioStar has been with me all the way. I have seen firsthand what proper nutrition can do to speed recovery, aid in strength building and bring equine athletes back to the top of the sport.
Now, at 17 years old, this horse has a chance at a second career, a life of comfort and a collection of persons around him who truly care.
Thank you BioStar for being an infallible reference for all things equine nutrition. Your dedication to the betterment of the horse through proper diet is unparalleled. I can call or email anytime with questions and updates and they are consistently warmly received.
Many heartfelt thanks!
Janie Ober
