The Moving Target: Huckleberry’s Success Story
At Performance Equine Nutrition, we often talk about the “loading dose” and increasing magnesium to address deficiency. However, equine physiology isn’t always a linear equation. Sometimes, finding the perfect balance requires us to pivot, listen to the horse, and adjust until we hit that individual “sweet spot.”
(Note: Names have been changed to protect client confidentiality.)
The Classic Symptoms
Gabby, a dedicated rider in Florida, reached out to us regarding her Irish Draft cross gelding. “Huckleberry” is a 1,200 lb, heavily muscled eventer working six days a week. He showed all the classic signs of a magnesium shortfall: he was “goosy” during lessons, “looky” at new objects, and increasingly balky at the trot and canter. Gabby was spending an hour on ground chores just to get him relaxed enough to begin jumping.
Ask Questions First
Initially, Huckleberry responded well to a loading dose of MagRestore. But then, he began to backslide. Given his size and heavy workload, the logical next step was to increase the dosage to three scoops twice daily. In nine out of ten cases, this is the solution.
But Huckleberry wasn’t the typical case.
When we upped his magnesium, his behavior actually worsened. He became more resistant and less connected. This is where the importance of direct-to-owner support comes in. Gail and I hopped back on the phone to look at the big picture.
The Pivot to Focus Every horse processes nutrients differently. We decided to try a completely different approach:
- Decreased the MagRestore: We cut his dose back significantly to just one scoop twice daily.
- Introduced Focus Equine: We added one scoop of our Focus Equine blend to support his mental clarity and concentration without overloading his system with more elemental magnesium than his specific metabolism wanted.
The “Brilliant” Result
The transformation was immediate. Last weekend, Gabby took Huckleberry to a show. Not only was he a “good citizen” all day, but he was the only horse in his class brave enough to jump the ditch, and he walked away with a blue ribbon!
Gabby reports that he is now forward, happy, and truly connected to her under saddle. The resistance at the trot and canter has vanished.
The Takeaway for Horse Owners
Huckleberry’s journey reminds us that magnesium status can be a moving target. What works for a Thoroughbred might not work for a Draft cross; what works for a trail horse might not work for an eventer.
We share this because we want you to know that it isn’t always a “success-only” journey from day one. It takes a dedicated owner and a willingness to “pick our brains” to get it right. If your horse’s progress feels stalled or you’re seeing unexpected changes, please reach out. We are here to help you find your horse’s unique sweet spot!