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Ashurst Farm Feeds welcomes guests and 'Harry the Gut'

08/05/09

Changeable weather greeted guests of Ashurst Farm Feeds and the Dengie Nutritionist at Littleton Cottage, Reigate the last Saturday in April. A mixture of experienced and novice horse owners came together to discuss and learn the ‘ins and outs’ of the horses’ digestive system. Anthea Chambers owner of Wildwoods Riding School, Jenny Kear from Surrey Union Pony Club and Jane Milan from Kent & Surrey Blood Hounds were among the individuals who had come along to meet ‘Harry the Gut’.

Claire Akers, Dengie’s Performance Horse Nutritionist, got straight to it and like a magician stood with her black bag in front of her and began to introduce Harry’s digestive system section by section, discussing the functions of each integral part of Harry’s gut whilst talking through potential problems and solutions that you may encounter. To help bring this all into context we looked at various real life case studies living at Littleton Cottage under the expert eye of Carol Brazell. A two-year-old, a ten-year-old, a sharp eventer, as well as a stunning mare competing at medium level dressage. The weight measuring tape came out along with the guide on horses condition scoring. Current diets were analysed and suggestions for enhancements made if needed.

Afterwards guests where able to talk at length over refreshments about any of their particular requirements, concerns or needs and questions were ably answered by Claire from Dengie supported by Ashurst Shop Manager, Dee Smith along with local Veterinary practitioner Steve Brooks.

‘I really enjoyed it’ said Shelby age 13 from Leigh ‘I never realised how small the horses stomach is, about the size of a rugby ball, you think it would be bigger. It certainly helps understand when you can see the full digestive system’.

‘A great visual aid’ said Anthea from Wildwoods ‘talking through the digestive system can sometimes send my level two BHS students to sleep, having something to look at poke and prod will certainly keep them more focused’.

Esther Winstone, owner of Ashurst Farm Feeds said ‘It’s important to us at Ashurst that we are able to work with our suppliers and loyal customers and are able to organise and offer events like this’. ‘We have a loyalty member scheme and being able to organise and invite our members to events like this is just one of it’s benefits’

The two hours passed quickly and having arrived in April showers guests left with goodie bags from Ashurst Farm Feeds and Dengie, in the glorious sunshine with a new experience to share and a new found friend in ‘Harry’.

To find out how to join the Ashurst Farm Feeds Loyalty scheme or be involved in events like this contact Esther Winstone on 01293 862440 or by email on sales@ashurstfarm.co.uk.

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