> Do most people vary them?
I vary the times somewhat but like Karen, I try to make sure their gut never gets totally empty I have made an effort since we've moved here to volunteer to take care of other people's horses as often as I can with the stipulation that they'll return the favor. There are about 5 of us that do this and it works out quite well. It's nice knowing that other horsey people are looking after my guys if I can't. In case something should happen to me, I keep feeding instructions in a plastic cover posted in the shed so anyone could come and feed without me having to be there to tell them what everyone gets. I keep that on my computer so if I need to update it, it's not a big deal. I also keep emergency contact numbers posted and I keep a sheet with Red Alert! situations - in other words what a normal heart rate/respiration should be and what a "call the vet" rate is. There are a few other things on the list, too. It can be hard to remember what those things should be in an emergency. Don't let all this scare you, though, V. There are a lot of people out there a lot less prepared and not as smart as you that take this on and do just fine. I know I went through a panic period where I thought,"Oh no, what if I don't know what to do in an emergency or what if I don't recognize a colic or blah, blah, blah, blah, blah" Then I would stop myself and realize that I have lots of experience and people to call if I need help (there are always folks willing to help you). -- Laree What a horse does under compulsion is done without understanding, and there is no beauty in it either, any more than if one should whip or spur a dancer. -Xenophon
