LETTERS

“4 Things You (Probably) Didn’t Know About Beet Pulp” (EQUUS 449) missed the mark on the first fact [“beet pulp doesn’t have to be soaked prior to feeding”]. The true risk of feeding dry beet pulp is that if your horse does choke, it is much harder to clear because the beet pulp swells in the esophagus as it is soaked in saliva. This can result in aspiration pneumonia and significant damage to the esophagus.

Also of note: Eating fast is not the only predisposing factor of choke. Poor dental health is also a big risk factor. I am an advocate for turning all pelleted feeds into oatmeal consistency prior to feeding. This removes the risk of choke no matter how fast they eat or how poor their teeth are. Claire Smith, DVM Sound Equine Veterinary Hospital Poulsbo, Washington