Unlocking Horse Health: The Secret to Symmetry and Well-being - Variable Feeding Positions (VFP)
Introduction: In the world of equine care, there's a revolutionary concept that could change the way you think about feeding your horse. It all started with a seminar presented by Australian biomechanics expert Sharon May-Davis, and the topic that caught our attention was Variable Feeding Positions (VFP). With winter approaching and our horses bound to spend more time in the stable, let's delve into what VFP means for your horse's body from a biomechanical perspective and how it can significantly enhance their well-being.
The Genesis of VFP:
Domestication Challenges:
Horses have experienced genetic and structural compromises due to domestication, largely influenced by the environments in which we keep them. The limited overall range of motion caused by static (and flat) feeding positions, can lead to various musculoskeletal issues but also uneven teeth wear, uneven jaw alignment or altered foot growth compared with the wild horses.
The Natural Behavior of Wild Horses:
Wild horses are designed to roam and graze over miles of varied terrain, eating from both below the knee (grazing) and above knee height (browsing). This diversity in feeding positions ensures that their necks get ample exercise, and typically is achieved on a ration of 80% grazing to 20% browsing. By replicating this variety in our domestic horse's feeding routine, we can achieve similar health benefits.
How to implement VFP:
Emulating Wild Horse Behavior, Variety in Feeding:
Sharon May-Davis suggests adopting feeding positions that mirror the natural behaviors of wild horses. Wild horses graze on the ground (flat, uphill, downhill), in hedgerows, and even reach for branches high in trees. These varied feeding positions play a vital role in helping horses attain a more balanced and upright posture.
Benefits of Elevated Feeding, Rectifying Unevenness, Engaging Muscles and Active Stretching:
Have you ever observed horses while they graze? It's quite common to see them with one foot forward and one foot back. They often appear to have a "preference" for one foot to be forward, which can result in asymmetry if not counterbalanced with sufficient movement and browsing. However, if you take a moment to watch a horse while it's eating from a tree or nibbling over a fence, you'll notice a significant difference – they tend to stand much more squarely in these situations. Feeding behind or over a fence encourages horses to square up, lift their necks, and engage their shoulders. This contributes to a healthier posture and overall well-being.
Whilst standing square, they will engage their whole body muscles and stretch their neck and shoulder muscles. What I must emphasize, is that feeding horses in higher positions should be only for a short amount of time which means a small net! Try a football size hay net up high and watch your horse reach out for it. You can also cut a tree branch with leaves, berries and/or flowers such as hawthorn and attach it up fairly high in the stable.
Assisting Rehabilitating Horses, Weight Distribution: For horses in rehabilitation, elevated feeding positions offer remarkable benefits. The weight shifts to the hind legs, and the gentle swaying motion when they reach for higher food sources aids in lightly loading and unloading injured limbs. Feeding with elevated front feet or uphill can alleviate the strain on the front legs, stretch the iliopsoas muscle for instance, or provide relief to conditions like laminitis. The horse has the freedom to choose a position that will be beneficial to him/her! Sharon stated that she achieved remarkable rehab for race horses with ligament injury with VFP whilst kept in a paddock. Careful movement is actually key to strengthen the injured ligament.
It is simple, cost effective, efficient and relevant.
The seminar led by Sharon May-Davis was truly transformative. Her extensive knowledge and profound insights have left an indelible mark, revealing the remarkable impact of VFP on horse health. This revelation was further reinforced by the empirical evidence she gathered through numerous dissections, making it an eye-opening experience. The investment in this high-quality Continuing Professional Development (CPD) through the seminar was invaluable and the knowledge I gained from it has not only enriched my understanding of equine care but has the potential to transform the lives of so many horses I see in my practice.
Variable Feeding Positions (VFP) is a game-changer in the realm of horse care. By imitating the feeding behaviors of wild horses and encouraging diverse feeding positions, you can help your horse achieve better musculoskeletal health and overall well-being. It's time to elevate your horse's life with VFP.
Share Your Experiences: Have you implemented Variable Feeding Positions for your horses? We'd love to hear your experiences and how it has positively impacted your horse's well-being. Share your photos and inspire others to embrace this innovative approach to horse care!
