Horse Hay Testing For Healthier Horses!
Written by: Moira Clune
Horse hay testing is a good idea. It's the only way to be sure of its actual nutrient content. And knowing the nutrient content is important so you can be sure your horse is eating an adequate diet.
The better the hay, the less grain you'll need...which can mean significant savings!
You'll need a hay corer to take samples. If you don't have one, contact your county agricultural extension and borrow one. Take samples from as many bales as possible. They may offer recommendations on a testing lab in your area.
We recommend Equi-Analytical Labs for tests. They will provide instructions on taking, packing and shipping your samples. Common tests include the NSC (non-structural carbohydrate) or 'sugar and starch' test to determine the hay's potential to increase the risk of metabolic disorders and the Rider Test of basic nutrients.
Other companies that test hay:
PRECISION FEED TESTING - Beaverlodge, AB 780-354-2259
CENTRAL TESTING LABORATORY - sample drop off at 20/20 Seed Labs in Nisku,AB (testing done in Winnipeg)
1-877-955-7861
http://www.ctl.mb.ca/
SEED CHECK TECHNOLOGIES INC. - Leduc, AB
1-866-980-8324 (toll free)
http://www.seedcheck.net/about_seedcheck.htm
NUTRILYTICAL (affiliated with Dairy One / Equi-Analytical recommended in the paragraph above) -
Located near Infrared, testing is done in Calgary, and shipments go to Ithaca regularly for wet chemistry testing, saving their clients the hassle of cross border paperwork.
http://www.nutrilytical.ca/index.html
CHAMPION FEED SERVICES - AB
http://www.championfeeds.com/locations/GrandPrairie.aspx
PARKLAND LABORATORY - Red Deer, AB
403 342-0404
(testing done in Red Deer)
**If you know of any other locations, or have a testing company that you recommend or have feedback about, let us know.
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