The whole premise of using a slow feeder, is to return the horse to his natural way of eating. Ihave discussed this at length, in other articles in the Hay Wisdom Section of theHay Wise Feeders website. In this article, I will address the importance of proper mechanics in the horse’s mouth, for a successful slow feeding experience.
I respect and honor the way horses are made – they are different – unique, really. In a suitable, native environment, they are quite capable of taking care of themselves. They are free to eat and roam and, well, be horses. Domestication involves removing them from their natural setting, but that doesn’t change who they are. Horses have physiological and mental needs and those needs are being ignored.
The article written by Juliet M. Getty, Ph.D., "Bring Back the Horse's Instincts" appears on the blog with her permission.
Before using any information from this blog for use in an article or publication of your own, please contact Tracie Audette for permission.
The more I began to ask myself and the experts questions, the more I discovered many of the answers did not make much difference in my animal companions’ well being. Much of what I was doing was what I was told was right. Not much of it worked, by firsthand experience. I figured there had to be something out there – just one thing - that could enhance the lives of my animals.
One of the biggest detriments to the domesticated equine is the loss of environment that allows them to forage for food as they were designed to do. Studies suggest that, in the wild, horses spend 90% of their time eating; or, walking in search of food. Scarce supply and many miles of walking aids in digestion, prevents gorging, colic, ulcers, and other digestive upsets.
There is much talk about the greenness of recycling plastics and the feel good vibe one should get by using items made from them.
When we were designing the Hay Wise Feeder and researching the plastics market, I was very sure I wanted to be able to label them as 100% Made in USA from recycled materials.
