Saturday, April 2, 2016

Out With the Oats, In With the Beet Pulp

Little Alice (she's actually bigger than the other hyenas but because she's older and skinnier I call her "little") was on a little serving of whole oats as per the vet's instructions, but after a suggestion by fellow donkey blogger Kris, and some reading, I've converted to beet pulp.  To add some poundage to the girl.

"It has approximately the same food value as oats, but without as much starch and sugar content."

What I've purchased does not contain molasses and is shredded.  It needs to be soaked prior to serving.

This shot was taken  prior to adding water.


A little difficult to discern, but after hydration it plumps up and is a darker brown.  I like to over-saturate it.  After feeding dogs in the morning, I add some hot water to the bowl of pulp, let it sit for just a few minutes while I tend to other morning duties, and add a little more water.  I probably soak it longer than is needed, but I want to make sure it's fully plumped before hitting Alice's belly.

Recently I've added just a wee bit of the oats to the mix -- I figure it's like adding some nuts to your oatmeal -- a nice little crunch. And some needed calories.

The little girl gobbles it up and leaves no residue in the bowl.

Thumbs up.

10 comments:

  1. Sounds as though sweet "little Alice" is enjoying her new diet. Is the beet pulp to try to build her up and put some weight on her? As long as she is enjoying it and it is doing her good, it is worth you having to soak it and 'prepare' her special meal. Although I don't know you, through reading your lovely blog posts, I can see that you are a great animal lover and you are prepared to do your best for the wonderful creatures in your care. P.S. Alice is lovely, bless her, (and so are your other donkeys). Kind regards, Louise S, Cheshire UK.

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    1. I am always so pleased to have your comments, Louise. Thank you!

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  2. New follower here. I've always loved those little donkeys but alas I live in town where we aren't allowed anything fun. I look forward to visiting yours.

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  4. Are these made from non GMO, non Round up ready sugar beets?

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    1. Fiona, so glad you reminded me! I'm now on the search.

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    2. I used soaked beet pulp for years, then the man I bought it from retired and sold his store, the new beet pulp gave my horses mouth ulcers, the new owners bought the beet pulp from a huge industrial farm. GMO and lots of chemicals so now I worry.

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