The Equine Health and Welfare Alliance (EHWA) and Kentucky Equine Research (KER) have teamed up to create comprehensive guidelines for the management of nutritionally neglected horses.

Assembled by the head research veterinarian and nutritionists at KER, the guidelines feature the nuts and bolts of restorative nutrition, specifically how best to feed horses safely for the first two weeks of rehabilitation. Titled "Refeeding Starved or Malnourished Horses," the guidelines contain a convenient, easy-to-read chart that can be posted in the barn for quick reference.

"Everyone in the equine industry should be concerned about unwanted or neglected horses," said Bryan Waldridge, DVM, Dipl. ABVP, ACVIM, head veterinarian at KER's research farm. "The recommendations produced through the partnership of EHWA and KER will serve as a guide for individuals and humane groups that want to rehabilitate malnourished horses. It is our hope that no horse will suffer from lack of feed, but because some do, we can provide nutritional advice to those who come to the aid of those horses in need."

The goal of the EHWA is to develop and maintain a comprehensive network of education, research, and support for the basic needs of all equines that allows them a life of dignity. The EHWA has a core membership of veterinarians, but membership is not limited to veterinarians, and all equine organizations, supporters, owners, and enthusiasts are encouraged to join. To learn more about EHWA, visit the organization's website at www.equinehealthandwelfare.org.

Kentucky Equine Research is an international equine nutrition, research, and consultation company serving both the horse producer and the feed industry. Its goal is to advance the industry's knowledge of equine nutrition and exercise physiology and to apply this knowledge to produce healthier, more athletic horses. For more information on KER, go to www.ker.com.