lasix and workouts

Question
QUESTION: Ed,
We have just claimed a horse for the second time. We have a question regarding the the use of lasix in workouts. Do most trainers use lasix when they work a horse out for official works? What is the standard, if there is one on official work outs before horses run in a race?

Thanks,
Pat

ANSWER: hi pat -- well i would not use lasix for a workout, unless you are worried about the horse bleeding during the actual worlout. you will use lasix on the horse when it runs if you have the horse on the lasix program. hope thios hepls you.  thanks ED HESS

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thank you for your quick response, our trainer works out our horse 11 days and 4 days before the race and uses Lasix both times plus during the race. Our horse is not considered a bleeder. Due to this our vet bills are high what do you recommed.
Thanks,
Pat

Answer
hi--  too much lasix is not good for the horse, as it can dehydrate the horse . lasix is a racing medication that is used to prevent bleeding and help the horse breath easier during his race.  i would only  use lasix on the race day. maybe your trainer thinks that the horse is a bad bleeder and is worried about his performance, so that is why he wants to use so much lasix. you should always check with your vet  to see if the horse is in need of the lasix fro racing.  hope this helps yopu out  thanks ED HESS