I compare normal feed to McDonald’s, and this is more Whole Foods. – Phil Schoenthal

A recent article in the online Daily Racing Form describes how trainer Phil Schoenthal has benefited by growing and feeding sprouted barley fodder, with sprouted sunflower seeds to his racehorses.  Among the positive results:

• Better hydration.  Because of fodder’s high water content, his horses get more liquids into them.  The horses recover more quickly from races and are ready to run again sooner.
• Ulcer prevention.  Consuming dehydrated, dry feed isn’t natural for a horse.  Sprouted fodder is a more natural feed and is easier on the digestive system and teeth.
• Higher red blood cell counts and higher electrolytes.

This isn’t of course the first time we’ve heard this.  Professional trainers and regular horse owners alike have not only seen the health of their animals improve, but have dramatically cut their feed bills.  While in many parts of the country, the cost of feeding horses can come to $2000 or more per animal per year, a healthy sprouted fodder diet can amount to as little as $1 per day per horse.  Many horse owners are being forced to choose between the animals they love, and the high cost of feed.  A fodder system is a real solution to a real problem horse owners face as drought stricken pastures dry out, and feed costs rise higher and higher.