The Hidez Compression Suit for Horses............
What the Inventor CLAIMS it does.
Following are all the claims made for the Hidez Suit by the inventor; how it works,and the
reasons he feels why animals should wear a compression garment; along with recommendations for usage. Matthew Spice’s own words are used, as indicated by quotation marks.
A closer examination and discussion of these claims will follow below.
1.
Variously, the Suit “increases circulation and oxygen availability”; “increases flow of blood
and oxygen to muscles”. Incorporates the claim that use of graduated compression
garments equates with alternative or “natural”” therapies.
2.
Graduated compression returns blood from the limbs to the heart (which the body cannot).
3.
The Suit supports key muscle groups and reduces muscle fatigue. Boosts “power, speed
and stamina” enabling horses to “go harder for longer and recover faster”.
4.
Assists “recovery of horses after exercise”.
5.
Keeps the horse cool in hot weather due to the “wicking” material used. Keeps the horse
warm in cold weather. Horses should wear a 2nd rug to protect the Suit from being bitten
or torn.
6.
Reduces “warm up” and “cool down” times for trainers when exercising their horses.
7.
Prevents “travel sickness”: by “reduc(ing) muscle vibration and soft tissue damage” - i.e.
tearing of muscle fibres from over-stretching due to vibration and oscillation of muscles.
Should be worn during aeroplane travel.
8.
Can be worn while swimming in the sea (but not in pools, as the chlorine will damage
the materials).
9.
Improves proprioception.
10.
The material used has been SPF50+ UV treated, so protects the horse from UV rays.
The material used is anti-bacterial.
11.
Reduces onset of DOMS in humans, which is the equivalent of “exceptional Rhabdomyolysis (i.e. Tying Up) in horses. Treats various other medical complaints - e.g.
Ty-Up, Lymphedema, greasy heel and pregnancy.
12.
Future Suits in the pipeline include the “Brood Mares (pregnancy support) Suit - which
should be worn full time by mares in foal” (as a support garment to improve circulation).
The Activ Suit (may come complete with heart monitor attached), and the Arctic
(Thermal) Suit.
13.
The Inventor claims the Australian Institute of Sport endorses compression garments
14.
The inventor claims the Hidez Suit has been “scientifically validated” by “scientific
research” and trials.
Introduction.
It is important to note that Mr. Spice has applied for the International Patent Pending for his
Suit for all animals, world-wide, and it his intention to aggressively promote this Suit, as he
believes that all animals can and should wear his Suit.
It is even more relevant that Mr. Spice’s knowledge of animal physiology is basically NIL.
While he grew up on a sheep station as a child, clearly (as the youngest of 11 children), he
learned nothing about animals. He is a former Rugby player, who worked as a chimney sweep
and who was desperate to dream up a wonder invention which would a) make him famous, and
b) make his fortune. A friend gave him a human compression garment, which he thought was
terrific, and his brainwave became the “horse equivalent” of this, i.e. the Hidez Horse
Compression Suit.
A relatively well researched and unbiased article by Karie Meltzer was published in The Post
Game (on the Internet). It was written on 1/4/2012, following Hay List first appearing at
Flemington in his Suit, on March l2th 2012. Following is some of this article: -”/ “No one has
ever made an actual compression garment for animals before the Hidez recovery Suit” says
Matthew Spice, the Suit’s inventor. “We are stepping into other animals as we speak, and can
only imagine where we can go with this technology”. Spice, a retired rugby player in New South
Wales, was in the chimney cleaning business before launching the Suits. At night, while
cleaning restaurant chimneys, longing for a visit from Mike Rowe, he would think “ How did I
get stuck here, and where can I go from here ?” Spice would return home at night and fall
asleep, dreaming of ideas for something new. He knew athletes who benefited from the
technology, so why not animals ? “.
But as the article goes on to point out, such a presumption as just expressed above is not
cut and dried. “The research on compression clothing helping muscle recovery [in humans]
is mixed. Some studies show it reduces soreness the day after 10K runs, and others showed
less soreness using compression tights after sprint and jumping tests. But other research
showed ice baths and rest were more effective than compression. Researchers have also
looked at whether compression clothing can improve performance, but a 2010 study from the
University of Indiana’s Department of Kinesiology, says the clothing had little impact on distance
running or vertical jumping performance. ‘Consumers need to keep in mind that this is a
business, and that they are trying to sell you their product’ Nathan Eckert, one of the researchers,
told Science Daily. “
Ironically, this article was written by Karie Meltzer just 4 days before Hay List was rushed to a
Veterinary Clinic for emergency surgery for colic, on 5/4/2012, after just 6 weeks in a Suit.
As often happens, while groggy afterwards, he slipped and fell over, breaking a bone in his knee,
compounding the whole disaster. He has indeed made a miraculous recovery, but (as with
Black Caviar), if he remains with the same trainer ( who will zip him up in a Suit again), his
prospects are very poor. Since John McNair has continued to promote the Suit and endorse it
on behalf of the Hidez Company, there will undoubtedly be a re-run of all the above.
At least this article in The Post Game compares favourably with the usual media-overboard
rubbish, jumping onto something new and sensational. For example, on 19/4/2012 (2 weeks
after Hay List’s colic attack), Anna Yeo wrote in the Hawkesbury Gazette, in an article entitled
“Richmond Chimney-Sweep invents animal compression suit” :- “From soot to success,
Richmond chimney-sweep Matthew Spice has invented the world’s first animal compression
suit which has taken Australia and the world by storm”. Similarly, on 1/5/2012 (4 weeks after
Hay List’s near fatal colic), Paula Parisi wrote for the Equestrian News “Hidez Recovery Suit
Aids Equine Athletes”. Somehow I doubt if Hay List, Black Caviar, or Stuart Tinney’s mare
Panamera, would give the Suit such ringing endorsements. By the time the last 2 articles
mentioned were written, Matthew Spice would have been well aware of Hay List’s condition.
Within 4 weeks, Stuart Tinny’s Olympic hopeful had been withdrawn due to a suspensory
ligament problem (on 29/5/2012). And within 4 weeks again, Black Caviar appeared at
Ascot looking absolutely shocking after 6 weeks in a Suit, and was very lucky to survive
the race she competed in on 23/6/2012. Yet all 3 horses are being promoted as success
stories for the Hidez Suit, on the Hidez Web Site, with 2 minute video testimonials given
by Stuart Tinney and John McNair. “Misleading” and “fraudulent” are terms that spring
to mind.
In reply to Matthew Spice’s own question, - i.e. that “he knew athletes who benefited from
the [compression garment] technology, so why not animals ?; the answer is devastatingly
simple.
1.
First acquire some knowledge about what you are actually doing, so that you
actually know what physiological effect your invention is going to have. In other
words, first do your study (about animal physiology), and then do your homework,
both of which take years.
2.
Before you start using animals as an entrepreneur, in order to make your fortune,
be very sure that what you are inventing is really going to be “beneficial”, or whether
it is going to cause suffering and kill animals.
3.
Organise a properly designed “scientific” trial and research project, with scientific
hypothesis and guidelines, approved by a reputable Authority. Had you done this,
the Hidez Suit would never have seen the light of day, because a non-valid
hypothesis and research project involving the use of animals, would never have been
approved by any responsible scientific body.
Unfortunately for Mr. Spice, the use of some very high profile, already successful horses, in
order to “trial” his Suits (as unsuspecting ‘guinea pigs’), did not achieve the results he had
hoped for. Three of the horses wearing his Hidez Suit had broken down, in one way or
another, before the 2012 Olympics (where he had planned to officially launch his Suit
internationally).
In an endeavour to “prove” and “validate the science” behind his Suit, Mr. Spice was unwise
enough to release on his Website in May 2012, his own version of horse physiology - including
how muscles act, how energy is produced and utilised, and in particular his version of aerobic
and anaerobic exercise, and “recovery”. Even if he didn’t write it himself, he didn’t know
enough to realise it was completely garbled rubbish, because he proved that by publishing it.
Even more unfortunately for Mr. Spice, I was able to forward copies of this extraordinary and
bizarre version of horse physiology to various Racing Authorities, and the Olympic Committees,
in order to prevent more of Australia’s best performing horses from being used as unsuspecting
‘guinea pigs’ to further Mr. Spice’s business ambitions. The inevitable result would have been
more breakdowns, even fatalities (for the horses), as well as injuries to our Olympic riders.
The Olympic Authorities had previously not endorsed the Suit, but because (like everybody
else), they had insufficient knowledge about horse physiology, and had failed to do their home
work, they had indicated the Olympic Team members could put the Suits on their horses, post
cooling down, if they wished to. Suffice to say, having had Mr. Spice’s ignorance, and the
dangers of wearing the Suit pointed out to them, the result was the Olympic Team was not
decked out in their Hidez Suits, as Mr. Spice had anticipated. Whether some of the horses
had already been wearing these Suits while preparing for the Games (in August 2012), I do
not know. The numbers of last minute Australian horse withdrawals, due to various injuries,
foot problems etc., did seem rather odd. Similarly the actual performance of the team was far
from impressive, with horses slipping, sliding and falling over on the flat, in the cross-country
phase. One horse which did complete the course failed to recover sufficiently from the ordeal,
(possibly due to rider error, going too fast for too long), and was vetted out of the showjumping
phase. There were also several very uninspiring performances in the showjumping. But
at least no horses or riders suffered serious breakdown, or were killed - it just appeared
that the horses were exhausted.
Shortly after I wrote to the Olympic Committees, Mr. Spice’s version of horse physiology
was withdrawn from his Web Site for some time. However it has now been reinstated, and
is there for all to see. As well, most of his definitions are there, in order to substantiate the
claims he makes about how his suit works, and to support the recommended uses for his
Suit.
Far better, however, for all readers interested in learning, to read a correct version of horse
physiology and anatomy, so that when bizarre inventions bob up, such as the Hidez Suit,
we can ask ourselves the right questions, and even more importantly we can answer
these questions ourselves, and not be fooled by promotional jargon and meaningless
blurb.
Basically, the first question we should all have asked ourselves, on first seeing the Hidez Suit,
is “why would a horse need a Compression Suit ? “. The answer is, it doesn’t. The next step
is to examine in detail either what effect a Compression Suit would have on how the horse
functions normally (see the previous article); or to examine in detail all the claims made by
the Suit’s inventor (see discussion below): - preferably both.
The following examination of each of the claims Mr. Spice makes for his Suit will help to
illustrate, I hope, that everyone in charge of an animal or animals, really must learn as much
as possible about their animals and how they function:- or they risk inflicting serious harm
on them (quite unintentionally of course). However, as I pointed out in my Introduction to this
Web Site, ignorance is no excuse. The importance of the need for knowledge will be even
more evident ( if possible), when the physiology of the camel is discussed in a later article.
The definitions and quotes in the following discussion are all Mr. Spice’s, taken from the Hidez
Web Site and various articles promoting the Hidez Suit (also published on the Internet). Most
of the Hidez promotional material has been repeated word for word (or with minor alterations)
from the promotional jargon put out by SKINS and 2XU. The claims made about how the Suit
works, and the “beneficial” actions of his Suit, are discussed in detail, in terms of the current,
accepted view of horse physiology, anatomy, mechanics of movement, aerobic and anaerobic
exercise. The only exception to this relates to the views expressed about swimming which are
my own, and which have been drawn from a thorough and logical examination of horse movement and breathing, together with an in-depth critique of the published results of scientific
research studies on swimming.
EXAMINATION OF CLAIMS MADE FOR THE HIDEZ SUIT
ITEM 1 :
Mr. Spice parrots all the jargon used by SKINS and 2XU (the major manufacturers of the human compression garments), in proposing his principal claim
about the basic concept of compression garments, which is “graduated
compression”.
The Hidez Suit uses a “graduated compression method which helps circulation and
supplies more oxygen to all the muscle groups”
“A greater amount of pressure is applied at the extremities (the lowest point of the leg)
and the pressure reduces along the limbs and body. The technique employed by the
design of Hidez animal compression suits assists in forcing vital blood supplies out of
the lower limbs back into circulation and towards the heart. This process may enhance
blood flow and oxygen available to an animal’s muscles”.
Discussion:
This is pure jargon and imaginative hyerbole. Where is the “proof” ? The
process of vascular circulation, and how the horse functions normally, has
already been discussed in the previous article.
The only thing that increases blood and Oxygen supply to muscles is
MOVEMENT, via contraction and relaxation of muscle fibres. Only the
heart pumps blood and Oxygen around the circulatory system, and only
contraction and relaxation of muscles and movement pumps blood in
and out of the muscles - not the Suit. In other words, for the heart to
provide the muscles with blood and Oxygen, the horse has to move - and for
extra blood and oxygen to be supplied to muscles, the horse has to move
faster and breathe faster, and the heart has to beat faster.
A full body Compression Suit has nothing to do with the above processes. In
fact, as already pointed out (in the previous article), it might squeeze some
surface fluids back into circulation once (when the suit is first put on), thus
causing partial dehydration. From there it is all downhill, as the horse gets
hotter and loses more body fluids (via sweating), thus compromising the
workings of the whole cardio-vascular system.
Claim re therapeutic action of the Suit
Mr. Spice makes the following extraordinary assertion in relation to the Hidez
compression Suit.
“Veterinarians and animal Surgeons across the globe will understand the benefits
that Hidez can have on horses and other animals across the globe. Many horse owners
are looking to steer away from drugs and are now looking at alternative natural treatments
to care for their animals such as Hidez”.
Discussion:
This statement is breathtaking in it’s utter ignorance and absurdity. Firstly, what is
“natural” about a 4-legged animal covered in hair wearing an all-over compression
garment, made of Spandex “limited stretch” material, with a “wicking” action ?
Secondly, the implication that his Suit can “treat” or cure “ medical conditions “
is literally off the planet. Some of the “conditions” that Mr. Spice claims his Suit
will treat are looked at in more detail in Item 11 below. We will just discuss here
and now, Mr. Spice’s claim about his Suit providing “natural” treatment.
Mr. Spice claims that horses “feel comfortable” in the Hidez Suit, and the effect
of this graduated compression is “like a constant massage”: - as soon as the
Suits are all zipped up, the horses “totally relax, start chewing or urinating”.
According to trainer John McNair, Hay List urinated immediately after his Suit
was put on. That is, (as per my previous article), the bladder had to be emptied
immediately to accomodate the extra-cellular fluids being pressed back into
circulation, which the kidneys were now having to remove in order to maintain
normal blood pressure.
So having just proved that compression Suits immediately cause partial dehydration, Mr. Spice has just also proved he knows nothing about the purpose
and objectives of massage. Massage aims to restore tight and compromised
muscles (and their tendons) as well as ligaments, to normal elasticity and
function; so that the body can regain full function and performance. When
injury and strain occurs to muscles and tendons etc., the body’s defence
mechanisms intervene to prevent these muscles from being used (and risking
further injury) until they have been healed. Unfortunately, this means that
injured tissues are actually receiving less blood and oxygen and nutrients.
The “pumping” action of massage helps move venous blood back into
circulation, and brings fresh blood to injured or strained muscles and
tissues, thus assisting them to heal quicker. Thus the aim of massage is to
restore the horse’s own MOVEMENT, so it can then resume optimal movement, circulation and performance.
While massage assists fluids in being returned to the vascular system and
recycled, the object of massage is not to remove total fluids from the body,
(although some accumulated toxins may have been filtered out and
eliminated by the kidneys by the end of the massage). Massage is relaxing,
so that horses look for something to eat and chew; and at the end of a one
to one and a half hour massage, they will wander off, defecate and urinate.
But this does not happen immediately, as with a compression Suit.
In fact, if a therapist feels that a horse is already dehydrated, this a direct
contra-indication for massage. The cause of the dehydration must be
ascertained and rectified immediately, and if necessary, veterinary assistance
must be sought.
Conclusion:
ITEM 2:
The “graduated compression” of the Hidez Suit has absolutely nothing to do
with increased circulation and/or supply of blood and oxygen to muscles. Nor
does it have any similarity to massage or any other “natural” alternative
treatment. The only thing it does is remove some of the body’s stored extracellular fluids, thus partially dehydrating the horse and reducing the circulation
of blood, nutrients and immune cells to connective tissues throughout the body.
Therefore the body’s immune function is actually compromised; which becomes
worse as the horse becomes more and more dehydrated inside the Suit.
Continuing with the theme of graduated compression, Mr. Spice states : “Basically, the heart pumps blood down the limbs, but the limbs don’t return the blood.
The Suit applies pressure at the extremities and then the pressure reduces off as the
blood travels back up the body”. “Animals that wear Hidez feel the same refreshing
sensations that humans feel when wearing graduated compression garments. The
actual sensation is improved blood flow, blood returning out of your limbs and back into
circulation and back to your heart”.
Discussion:
Have you ever felt that ? What utter baloney ! Horses have survived for
millions of years without the Hidez Suit to assist them, and I seriously doubt
if oedema of the lower limbs has ever been an endemic problem for horses
in their “natural” state.
Mr. Spice got the bit about the heart being the pump right; but clearly has no
idea about venous and lymphatic return, and the importance of MOVEMENT,
(i.e. contraction and relaxation of muscles), combined with the action of
special pumps located in the feet of the horse ( i.e. the frogs). This underlines
the importance of constant movement in the horse, and why it lies down so
infrequently. Even when it is standing still and resting, this is only for short
periods, and the horse shifts it’s weight fairly frequently in order to keep the
circulation going.
Conclusion:
The above description of circulation by Mr. Spice bears no resemblance to
reality. What “scientific proof” does Mr. Spice have to substantiate such an
extraordinary claim, beyond a fertile imagination ? The horse’s body has a
circulatory system which has functioned perfectly well for centuries, without
any “assistance” from a compression Suit, and will continue to do so.
ITEM 3:
The Hidez Suit “supports key muscle groups and reduces muscle fatigue”.
“Our tactically placed panels and seams (anchor points) support key muscle
groups by using an innovative wrapping technique, which creates the right
amount of balanced Graduated Compression reducing muscle fatigue” . It also
“decreases risk of muscle injury during times of muscle fatigue”. The Hidez Suit
“boosts power, speed and stamina” enabling horses to “go harder, for longer and
recover faster”.
Discussion:
So the Hidez Suit is a Support Garment - all the drawbacks of which have
been discussed in the previous article. Mr. Spice is once again using all the
promotional blurb put out by 2XU and SKINS for humans. He is closest to
SKINS, whose “technology” he is closest to with their 3D imaging, and the
type of material used, which is a warp-knit Spandex material with “limited
elasticity”, which “wrap(s) and support(s) key muscle groups to reduce
movement and focus direction”.
But now it all starts to get really muddled, because (surely) to incur muscle
fatigue, you have to use your muscles very strenuously. And the Hidez Suit
is not worn when horses are exercising : - it is specifically recommended to
be worn during float travel (before exercise); and for “Recovery” (after
exercise); and at all times other than during exercise. Horses could not
possibly wear a full body suit when exercising, because it would be too hot.
Veterinarian Dr. John Kohnke (“Feeding and Nutrition” p. 106) tells us how
much heat horses generate during the production of energy. “A galloping
horse produces enough heat (2,250 Cals) in its muscles during energy
metabolism during a 3,000 metre race [3 minutes] to bring 28 litres (about
6 gallons) of tap water to the boil” . So a horse being swum for 3 minutes
(which is all anaerobic exercise) has just expended more energy during a
3 minute swim than during a 3,000 metre race.
The same situation applied originally to the human compression garments,
which were full body Suits designed for swimming competitions. When these
were banned, a number of changes were made, as part of a business
expansion plan, to extend and expand the role of the compression garment,
and find new uses for them. Only partial, porous garments are now worn in
swimming competitions. They are not worn during the actual “cooling down”
process, (i.e. when recovery takes place), but they are called “Recovery”
garments and the manufacturers recommend athletes wear them after
competition and training. Initially, they were not intended for wearing during
training and exercise - but now this is recommended. Separate garments
are available for all-the-time wear; during activity and post-recovery; and of
course they are worn as support garments when athletes have suffered
muscular injuries. To justify these new functions for their garments SKINS
says: “We now know what compression levels are required for specific
muscle groups whilst static, during activity and in post-exercise recovery.
We now know where you need movement for comfort and injury prevention
and how to get the best circulatory benefits for more oxygen delivery and
reduced lactic acid build-up” (This must be a very clever machine, imaging
all that ). SKINS go on to say “We’re not just trying to squeeze you. SKINS
gradient compression has been engineered to provide the correct level of
surface pressure to specific parts of the body. This enhances circulation and
gets more vital oxygen to your active muscles - boosting your power, speed
and stamina”.
Despite the fact that the above jargon has no more relevance to human
physiology than it does to horse physiology, Mr. Spice has embraced all the
above, with a vengeance. The biggest problem is, that his Suit was only
meant to be worn when not exercising; ( i.e. when muscles were not getting
tired). So first and foremost it is a “Recovery” Suit - post exercise. But Mr.
Spice thought very hard, and came up with a recommended use where
muscles might get tired and injured, (so he could use all the above jargon),
and arrived at “Travel Sickness”. He also now recommends that horses can
be swum (in the sea) while wearing a compression Suit (see Item 8 below).
Conclusion:
All the above is nothing but jargon, based on SKINS’ “scientific technology”
which is their 3D imaging machine so they can design garments to “fit”
perfectly. But Mr. Spice will believe anything, and especially what he wants to
believe. So his Suit (which can’t possibly be worn while exercising because it
would be too hot), can now do the same things as SKINS’ exercise garments,
while the horses are not exercising. Makes perfect sense.
As for the references to ‘power, speed and stamina’, and ‘going harder for
longer’; this is a real confusion of terms, mixing up aerobic and anaerobic
exercise. It must be remembered that anaerobic exercise (by definition)
results from energy production without Oxygen; and only anaerobic exercise
produces lactic acid. This will be discussed further when we come to Items
7 & 8.
ITEM 4:
The Hidez Suit “assists recovery of horses after exercise”. According to Matthew
Spice, “the science” behind this is as follows:
“The Hidez Recovery Suit uses a graduated compression method which helps
circulation and supplies more oxygen to all the muscle groups. This process
also speeds up the removal of waste products such as Lactic Acid from the
circulatory system, resulting in better performance by being able to exercise
harder, longer and recover quicker. The Hidez Recovery Suit is recommended
to be worn during all transportation, stabling and prior to and after exercise or
competition”. Additionally, the process of graduated compression “can speed up
the removal of waste products like lactic acids and carbon dioxide, for vital
blood supplies. Good healthy blood supplies ensures recovery from injuries
faster, helps in the prevention of injuries by maintaining muscle temperature
and reduces muscle fatigue by flushing out ‘bad blood’, which aids in the
reduction of delayed onset muscle soreness”.
Discussion:
This is the most excruciating garbled mishmash of rubbish, taken straight from
SKINS’ dubious notions of physiology and “recovery”. It is hard to unravel it all
and know where to start. Basically, none of the above has any relevance to
‘Recovery’, even if it were true, (which it isn’t), because when “Recovery” is taking
place after exercise, the Suit isn’t even being worn.
The most crucial factor in a horse’s recovery after exercise is the “cooling down”
period, when horses must be kept moving as they cool down. Firstly, this is to
keep the evaporation of sweat and cooling effect on the skin going, due to movement of air. Secondly, after intense exercise or competition, there is a huge
oxygen deficit to be repaid to all organs and tissues, and the only way to repay this
“debt” is to keep the horse MOVING, and the heart pumping, and muscles contracting, so that the blood keeps circulating and being re-oxygenated, and the oxygen
deficit is gradually repaid throughout the body. If the work has been aerobic work,
(i.e. only up to 3/4 pace), and all the glycogen reserves have not been used up,
then the only by-products of exercise will be Carbon Dioxide, water and heat - all
of which are transferred out of the blood via the lungs. There will be no lactic acid.
There will only be lactic acid in the muscles if the horse has galloped flat out, or
been swum in the pool, or the sea - i.e. anaerobic exercise. Once again, the only
way to remove this from the muscles is by keeping the blood circulating to the
muscles immediately after work is finished, and this can only be achieved by
MOVEMENT.
The horse must be kept moving at all times (i.e. walking), until it has completely
cooled down. By this time, all the lactic acid should have been removed from the
muscles, and the oxygen debt repaid to the heart, muscles, nerves, brain and
smooth muscles of the gastro-intestinal tract.
By keeping the muscles contracting and pumping blood in and out of the muscles,
lactic acid is pumped out back into the venous circulation, back to the heart and
then to the lungs where the blood is re-oxygenated. From there, this blood and
fresh oxygen (and lactic acid) is pumped back out from the heart to the liver, which
processes the lactic acid, and reconverts it (in the presence of oxygen) to glucose.
This energy source becomes available straight away to the horse for it’s
immediate needs - i.e. for continued function, metabolism, production of energy
and muscular contraction. It is important for the horse to replace lost fluids as
soon as possible after exercise (by drinking); and also to eat as soon as possible,
in order to both restore peristalsis and function to the gastro-intestinal tract, as well
as beginning the process of digestion, absorption and replacement of nutrients
lost during exercise. Replacement of muscle and liver reserves of glycogen can
take from 2 to 3 days after strenuous exercise.
All the above takes place immediately after work has finished, as part of the
“cooling down” process in the horse. None of it has anything at all to do with
compression Suits. Any improvement in future performance will be as a result of
aerobic work, (involving slow twitch and fast slow-twitch muscle fibres), and the
improvement will be seen in improved endurance/stamina up to 3/4 pace, as the
horse gets fitter. Fast-twitch muscle fibres do not become fitter from anaerobic
work (i.e. when energy is metabolised in the absence of oxygen), because this
involves only very short-term intense work of approx. 40 seconds duration,
before glycogen reserves are used up, and lactic acid build-up begins to cause
muscle fatigue, so the horse slows down. This burst of short-term energy was
all that was required for the horse to survive being chased by the lion. Speed
and power are anaerobic muscle functions performed by anaerobic muscle
fibres, so are very unlikely to improve in anything other than size (which is
different to performance ability) : - it may reflect an increase in level of stored
glycogen. The absolute level of performance will always be determined by
a combination of how long all the other tissues in the body can be deprived
of oxygen, the amount of stored glycogen available, and the level of lactic acid
build-up and muscle fatigue.
Conclusion: The Hidez Suit has nothing to do with “Recovery” in horses. Any improvement
in performance will come from improved aerobic muscle function; sufficient
dietary fibre to provide Volatile Fatty Acids for aerobic muscle function (including
the heart); and perhaps an improvement in the capacity of muscle and liver cells
to store glycogen. The only effect a Hidez Suit will have on recovery is that if a
horse is already dehydrated significantly prior to exercise, this will have severe
repercussions on the rate and level of Recovery.
ITEM 5:
The Hidez Suit keeps the horse cool in hot weather due to the “wicking” material
used. It also keeps the horse warm in cold weather.
Discussion:
The above claims are the basis for the claims made in Item 6 below. They have
already been dealt with in depth in the previous article (What Compression
Garments actually do ). Both the above claims are quite incorrect. In fact, in
FAQs on the Hidez Web Site, Matthew Spice proves what I have said about
horses getting hotter in the Suits, when he states : - “Our wicking fabrics stops
sweat cooling your skin too”. Case closed.
ITEM 6:
Claim : Wearing a Hidez Suit reduces “warm up” and “cool down” times for
trainers when exercising their horses.
Discussion:
This claim is based on the erroneous belief that compression garments
increase circulation and flow of blood to the muscles, and this keeps the
muscles warmer. In making the above recommendation to trainers, that they
decrease “warm up” and “cool down” times, Matthew Spice has just stepped
even further out of his territory. Just as any reduction in “cooling down” time
would be disastrous for recovery (see Item 4 above), similarly any reduction
in “warm up” time would be equally disastrous. This is particularly so, due to
the fact that the horse has been wearing a “support” garment for muscles and
tendons prior to exercise. This makes it essential to take more time to warm
up muscles and tendons slowly, before attempting to do any serious work.
Basically 3 wrongs (in Items 5 & 6) do not make a right. Dr. John Kohnke
advises that even trotting very fast initially (without sufficient slow trotting
warm up), can initiate an episode of Tying-Up. Since trainers generally work
their horses very early in the mornings, when it is often very cold, this means
horses wearing Hidez Suits will be even colder, so therefore will require more
warming up time than usual.
The above applies (even more so), to when horses are being swum on “slow”
days (i.e. instead of doing track work). Because swimming is all anaerobic
fast-trotting action, flat out all the way, it is the fast slow-twitch muscles being
used, which can Ty-Up very early on, leading to muscle cramps, and the
possibility of drowning; or (if the horses manage to stagger out of the pool), they
may then succumb to “post-swim colic”. This makes it imperative that horses
are properly warmed up before being swum. Again, because swimming has
been all anaerobic exercise (with consequent lactic acid build-up), this also
makes it more essential to “cool down” horses after swimming , as part of
the usual Recovery process.
Better still, as anaerobic work simply exhausts horses (with no improvement in
fitness), it would be best not to swim your horse at all. A water-walker would be
preferable.
Conclusion:
Wearing a Suit before or after exercise ( or at any time) has no bearing whatsoever on “warm up” and “cool down” times. The temperature of the day and type
of exercise has more bearing on the time required to either warm up or cool
down.
ITEM 7 :
Claim: The Hidez Suit prevents “Travel Sickness”.
“Just like human graduated compression apparel brands, Hidez animal compression
suits use a unique muscle focus design when applying pressure to an animal’s skin.
The Suit wraps the muscle groups focusing on controlling graduated compression, but
also aiding in the reduction of muscle vibrations. This is very important when animals
are travelling. Muscles work extremely hard during travelling, they vibrate and can overstretch. Muscle vibration can cause microfibres to tear in the muscles, as a result
membranes leak and the enzyme Creatine Kinase (CK) leaks into the blood in high
concentrations causing cramping and ultimately travel sickness”
“The HIDEZ suits are cut and sewn in a specific way, using our distinct seams that act
as anchor points to help wrap the muscles holding them firm against the body, stopping
muscle vibrations”
In addition: “When HIDES are worn during transport the compressive effect prevents
muscles from vibration and over extending (which can cause injury) and may even
treat injuries as they occur”.
“Many times horses have travelled by air across the globe and horses have travelled
long distances by road here in Australia (interstate) in the Hidez suits. All of which
have had great experiences.”
Discussion:
What a load of garbage. I have never heard or seen a more bizarre or
ridiculous definition as that for “travel sickness” above. How did Matthew
Spice dream that one up ?
For the record, “travel sickness” is usually the result of extended travel, and
a combination of overheating and dehydration, plus the accumulation of fluid
in the lungs, which the immune system cannot cope with, leading to
pneumonia and/or pleurisy (which can permanently affect the lungs). Mucous/
“cleaning” fluids collect in the lungs at the rate of around 20 litres per day, which
normally drain as the horse puts it’s head down to eat grass. When horses are
standing tied up on a float, without being able to put their heads up and down
sufficiently, these fluids can’t drain away.
Once again all the ideas about muscle vibration and tears have come from
SKINS and 2XU; while the idea of oscillations (and muscles overstretching
and tearing) has come from 2XU’s discussion about muscle cramps, which
has all been misinterpreted by Mr. Spice. How can muscles overstretch and
tear while a horse is standing still on a float ? Even more pure fantasy is
Mr. Spice’s proposition that his suit can heal these injuries as they happen i.e. so you don’t even know they have occurred ! Unbelievable.
Conclusion:
This is just getting more and more daft. The greatest dangers to horse health
(resulting in respiratory infection) will result from dehydration due to the horse
sweating on a hot day, and not being able to cool down on the float - due to
the Hidez suit preventing air movement from cooling the horse down, through
evaporation of sweat against the skin. The horse’s immune system function is
very rapidly compromised by dehydration and lack of circulating body fluids.
Even a well-ventilated float cannot compensate for the overheating inside the
Suit. Alternatively on a cold day, the Suit will actually make the horse colder,
so standing in a cold draught on a long journey is not going to be in the best
interests of your horse. In other words, wearing a compression Suit while
travelling in a float is never going to be beneficial for your horse, it can only
ever make things worse.
ITEM 8 :
The Hidez Suit can be worn while swimming in the sea (but not in pools, as
the chlorine will damage the materials).
Discussion:
This is becoming an exercise in contradictions for Mr. Spice. Even though his
Suit is not an exercise suit, suddenly it can be worn while swimming - the most
strenuous anaerobic exercise that there is. Swimming is not a “natural”
exercise for the horse, any more than it is for humans. Humans have to be
taught how to swim (and breathe properly) when they are children, as there
are far too many drowning deaths annually with children and adults. Some
horses can swim (as a survival measure only), but some can’t, and those with
respiratory problems and/or back and muscular problems can (and do) drown. I
would not think their chances are going to improve in the water while wearing a
close fitting compression Suit, which limits and restricts movement.
Having embraced SKIN’s version of compression garments which “limit and
restrict movement”, Mr. Spice now puts the opposite view: - i.e. the Suit “does
not restrict movement”.
Of course the Suit can’t be worn while doing any sort of exercise, and particularly
swimming, due to the amount of heat which would be generated by energy
metabolism inside the Suit (see Item 3 above), because swimming is even more
strenuous than galloping. But to make matters worse, horses are unable to
breathe as well while they are swimming : - in fact their air (and therefore oxygen)
intake is only 1/5th that of when they are galloping. (These statistics have been
scientifically gathered via properly set up research studies).
Since swimming is all anaerobic exercise, energy sources are rapidly depleted, so
that horses run out of air, oxygen and nutrients, and become exhausted, rather
than becoming fitter. In other words in terms of becoming fitter, swimming is
counter-productive.
Conclusion:
Horses should never be swum, and especially not while wearing restrictive closefitting clothing, which will trap heat inside. A full discussion on swimming will be
addressed in the next article to be published.
ITEM 9 :
The Inventor claims that his Suit improves Proprioception.
It “promotes oxygen availability to muscles (proprioception) “. Other definitions include:
“How do HIDEZ help muscles ? Animals muscle feel more fatigued and less powerful
when they vibrate. HIDEZ suits are constructed in a way that holds them very tight
against the animal’s body in the right places, to help reduce vibration and improve
muscle focus and proprioception (awareness).”
Discussion:
Proprioception is the mechanism by which sensory nerves located in the muscles
tendons and ligaments relay the position of limbs, and tension in muscles and
tendons, back to the Central Nervous System, in order to regulate co-ordination
of limbs. These nerves are the body’s mechanism for preventing muscles from
overstretching and being injured: - they advise the CNS that this muscle/tendon
has reached the limit of its extension, so its movement must therefore be
restricted. This is firstly to prevent injury; or if injury has already occurred, to
allow rest and repair.
Matthew Spice’s first definition of proprioception is clearly ridiculous, as proprioception has nothing to do with promoting oxygen availability to muscles. His
second definition emulates SKINS’ definition (since he doesn’t have one of his
own) ; thus both definitions above are incorrect. SKINS incorporate their
concept of proprioception under the heading of Muscle focus. “SKINS have a
unique way of wrapping and supporting your key muscle groups to reduce
movement and focus direction. The seams on SKINS are strategically placed
to act as ‘anchor points’ offering focused support and stability and promoting a
heightened sense of proprioception.
The results: Less vibration in your muscles
Less soft tissue damage
Less soreness after exercise
A decreased risk of muscular injury during times of fatigue
SKINS “muscle focus” also reduces delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) that stiffness and strength loss you get 24 - 72 hours later - and speeds up your
recovery time too”.
These definitions are very mixed up, with graduated compression and support
equating to a heightened sense of proprioception; which in turn reduces vibration
of muscles (as in ‘travel sickness’), resulting in less soft tissue damage, and
a decreased risk of injury during times of muscle fatigue. And all this reduces
DOMS in humans, which Matthew Spice now equates with Tying Up in horses.
Conclusion:
Another meaningless mixed-up definition. The Hidez Suit does not improve
proprioception, but it may well compromise it. If muscle movement is “limited”
and “reduced” by an inelastic compression garment, then maybe the proprioceptor nerve function is also reduced and limited Rather than improving proprioception, this would be more likely to result in over-stretching, injury and breakdown when the Suit was removed for exercise (particularly if this was very
strenuous).
ITEM 10 :
The inventor claims the material used in his compression suit has been SPF50+
UV treated, so protects the horse from UV rays. Additionally, the material has
an anti-bacterial action.
Discussion:
Both of these are unnecessary and irrelevant, in terms of horse health. The
horse’s hair protects it from UV rays (as with all animals). But the Suit interferes
with exposure of the horse’s skin to sunlight, therefore it reduces the horse’s
ability to synthesise Vitamin D. Both Vitamin D and Vitamin A are necessary
for the absorption of Calcium from the diet ( as already discussed in the
previous article).
The anti-bacterial action has only been incorporated to protect the material
itself from the effects of moisture. The horse certainly doesn’t need this, as
it produces it’s own anti-bacterial, water resistant oil in the hair follicles. This
forms a protective barrier on the skin, as well as producing the lovely shine on
horses’ coats (not the Suit, as claimed by Mr. Spice). If the horse is wearing a
suit, therefore, the horse’s own self-protection mechanism is being interfered
with, since it relies on the horse’s own temperature regulation system, - via
hair being raised and lowered by the smooth muscles at the base of the hair
follicles. This movement pushes the sebum from the hair follicles onto the skin,
and creates the first protective barrier to harmful external bacteria for the horse.
Conclusion:
The Suit provides no benefit whatsoever, as claimed. In fact, as with all the
prior claims so far, the Suit interferes with the horse’s own natural functions.
ITEM 11 :
Claim: The Hidez Suit “Reduces delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) - the
stiffness and strength loss the equine experiences after extreme physical exertion”.
“Human athletes found that wearing gradient compression garments after exercise
prevented a painful and limiting phenomenon called delayed onset muscle soreness
(DOMS). DOMS occurs 24-72 hours after intense exercise, impacting upon
subsequent performances. This is similar to a phenomenon in horses called
recurrent exceptional Rhabdomyolysis - colloquially called “tying up”. Horses have
the disadvantage that they cannot directly inform their owners of the level of their
distress”.
The Hidez recovery suit is “designed to enhance blood flow back to the heart from
the extremities (lower limbs). It will help supply more oxygen to muscles (enhance
muscle activity), flush out waste products from blood supplies (e.g. lactic acids) and
stop muscles from the effects of vibration (reduces DOMS). All of which will help
reduce recovery times”.
“The increased oxygenation and circulation provided by HIDEZ is an excellent way
of relieving a range of medical complaints, including travel fatigue, lymphedema,
greasy heal and Ty-up. It also helps to improve circulation during pregnancy”.
“For the best result with soft tissue injury, muscle fatigue and Ty-up it is best that the
suit be left on for any time between 12-72 hours”.
Discussion :
DOMS must surely relate to a number of things - e.g. level of fitness prior to
intense exercise; type of exercise (aerobic or anaerobic); the cooling down
(i.e. “recovery”) process, and whether this was adequate. Manufacturers of
the human garments rely to a great degree on “perception” and reports of
perceived benefits from wearers (more than “clinically proven” benefits).
Matthew Spice alludes to horses not being able to express their distress, so
he has also opted for “perceptions” - i.e. the owners and trainers’ perceptions
of how the horses are feeling. Good idea, but not very “scientific”.
Once again, definitions are a problem, as this is very confused, with DOMS
in humans being equated with Tying up in horses. Did he really mean
“exceptional Rhabdomyolysis” - because the correct term is “exertional
Rhabdomyolysis”. The problem is, DOMS (as its name implies) is delayed
muscle soreness, some 24-72 hours after exercise. The human equivalent
of Tying-Up would be cramp : - i.e. when muscles run out of nutrients and
energy reserves, and (as the name implies) muscles literally seize up or TyUp. This occurs during exercise, and the effect is immediate (not delayed),
and results in horses not being able to move. If it occurs in the pool while
swimming, clearly the horse will drown. If it is just after the horse has left
the pool, cramp-like symptoms are currently interpreted as “post-swim colic”
and the results can be just as fatal.
The best way of dealing with all the above symptoms is to warm up
thoroughly; not over-exercise beyond the level of fitness; followed by very
thorough cooling down (as already described) so that lactic acid is removed
from muscles immediately after exercise by adequate MOVEMENT, and
walking. Reducing recovery time is hardly an option, any more than wearing
a Suit (either before or after exercise) will make a difference. Dehydration
(of any degree) will not assist post-exercise recovery.
The claim that wearing a Suit reduces travel fatigue contains many contradictions in terms. Wearing a Suit does not increase oxygen circulation.
Lengthy travel confined in a float (i.e. limited movement), while wearing a
compression garment (which restricts muscle vibration and movement), is
not “intense exercise”. Travel fatigue is caused by a number of factors,
including horses not being able to move around and put their heads down
to eat, (i.e. head and neck muscles are held in a restricted position for an
extended period); lack of food and water; accumulation of fluids in the lungs;
overheating and dehydration.
MOVEMENT is the best alternative to standing around and not moving
(which is when any fluid might collect in the lower limbs). Therefore muscle
“vibration” (presumably due to vibration coming through from the road to the
floor of the float), is actually not a bad thing, as it would keep muscles
contracting, and therefore keep circulation going (which the Suit doesn’t).
What possible effect the Suit can have on greasy heel is pure speculation,
as no explanation is given for this assertion.
I have never yet heard of pregnancy being classed as a medical complaint.
I would have thought it was a fairly “normal” condition, not requiring “treatment”.
This is discussed in more detail in Item 12.
Conclusion : Absolute unproven hogwash, all of it; including the claims made for the human
garments.
ITEM 12 :
“Our Broodmares Suit is designed to support the mare and foal throughout pregnancy,
and will be left on the entire time of the pregnancy”. The Suit “helps to improve
circulation during pregnancy”.
Also coming soon are the “Hidez Activ Suit”, and the Hidez Arctic (Thermal) Suit.
Discussion :
Q 1.
Q 2.
The Activ Suit may be intended to be worn while exercising, complete with
heart monitors etc. The concept of a saddle and girth over the top of a
compression Suit, further restricting movement of the forelegs is just mindblowing. It has already been conclusively shown that horses can not
possibly exercise while wearing a suit, as they would be too hot. This is
pure fantasy.
With reference to the Broodmares Suit, the claim that the Hidez Suit
increases circulation is already established as unproven, with no validity
in relation to the physiology of animals. The following questions need to be
asked in relation to the insane concept of a Pregnancy Support Suit: How far does the Hidez Suit (with its “limited elasticity” stretch, in order to
accomodate the growing foetus ?
Does the mare need a larger suit (perhaps more than one extra), as the foal
grows ?
Q 3.
Q 4.
Q 5.
Q 6.
Q 7.
Doesn’t the horse’s skin stretch as required (and regain it’s shape), and
adequately support the foal ? If not, what has happened in the recent history
of breeding and why ? Why would horses be different to humans ?
Why is a Suit that reduces the total volume of body and tissue fluids be
suitable for pregnant mares ? Surely additional fluids containing nutrients
for the foal are required ?
Why is a Suit that causes overheating and dehydration suitable for pregnant
mares ?
Why is a Suit that interferes with the horse’s regulation of it’s own body
temperature suitable for pregnant mares ?
Why is a Suit that interferes with exposure to sunlight, (thus interfering with
synthesis of Vitamin D, and the absorption of calcium from the diet) suitable
for pregnant mares ? Isn’t calcium (along with various other minerals and
electrolytes) necessary for a whole range of body functions and growth of
tissues, including healthy bone development ?
Matthew Spice is not a Veterinarian, or nutritionist, and there is no evidence
that he knows anything at all about the physiology of any animal, let alone
horses, let alone about the needs of pregnant broodmares. It is time some
one told this complete ignoramus to stop giving owners advice about things
he knows nothing about. The only result from following his advice will be
extreme suffering and possibly death for your horse.
Conclusion:
Matthew Spice believes everything he is told. This is a salient warning.
Never believe everything you are told. Always ask questions.
ITEM 13 :
Claim: “Graduated Compression garments such as SKINS and 2XU are very
popular among humans because of their easiness to use and their extreme results
when used while training or as a recovery tool. This technology is unique and has
been shown to provide a wide range of benefits for athletes for many years now and
in fact the AIS (Australian Institute of Sport) now endorses them”
Discussion:
The “benefits” to human athletes are unproven in terms of long-term studies
and statistical results. Relevance to the horse compression Suit is basically
NIL, due to differences in anatomy, body hair and temperature regulation,
along with humans only wearing partial compression garments; while the
horse has been encased in a full body suit.
The statement that the AIS endorses all compression garments is both
untrue and misleading. The AIS has a special Performance Recovery
Centre - which specifically nominates hydrotherapy as the most beneficial
therapy. The list of therapies utilised in “Recovery” include : Rest and sleep; Nutrition: Warm-down, stretch; Massage: Hydrotherapy;
Psychological means; and Compression garments.
I rang the person in charge of this Unit (mid 2012), who told me that
compression garments are used post-recovery, or perhaps following
injury. However, they are not recommended by the AIS for track athletes
wearing them while training: - this is left to personal discretion and their use
is monitored closely by the athletes’ personal trainers, and/or physiotherapists. The only compression garment approved for use by the AIS is
the 2XU partial (porous) swim garment, worn only during swimming competitions. In line with AIS objectives, a joint co-operative study, between 2XU
and AIS has recently been completed, but the results were not yet available.
2XU is an official sponsor of the AIS. But the fact that their swim costumes
are approved in no way implies that the AIS endorses all compression
garments. The AIS in no way endorsed compression garments for horses.
2XU garments have become a necessary mental, and psychological, adjunct
for the human athlete, irrespective of whether they actually do what most
athletes now “believe” that they do. In other words, athletes have all been
successfully indoctrinated and brainwashed, because they didn’t have
sufficient knowledge about human physiology and their own bodies to ask
the right questions in the first place. 2XU now no longer feel the need to
“scientifically prove” and validate their garments: - their promotion is now
targeted on a purely “aspirational” level. “2XU engineers products with the
single minded goal of best equipping the athlete, so they feel more prepared,
more race ready and more capable than their competition. As they put on
their technologically advanced garments, they also put on a desire; to be more
than they ever have been, to perform beyond expectation. With 2XU technology
a piece of the finely balanced equation is in place to multiply your human
performance.”
So just before we float away on our euphoric cloud, let’s come back to earth.
How many sprinters (male or female) were chosen to represent Australia
in the London Olympics (or rather qualified for Olympic selection) ? And how
well did our track event athletes, and our swimmers, perform overall ? Maybe
(it’s just possible), other factors are important - e.g. nutrition, natural talent,
and level of fitness (which requires an understanding of the differences between
aerobic and anaerobic exercise).
Conclusion:
NEVER believe everything you are told, without asking relevant questions about
the so-called “science”. NEVER be fooled by terms such as “science” and
“technology” - there is a huge difference between “advances in technology” (in
this case, the materials used by 2XU and how they “fit”); and the “science” of
human and/or animal physiology . Always ask questions.
ITEM 14:
Claim: The Inventor of the Hidez Suit claims his Suit has been “scientifically
validated” by “scientific research” and trials.
“We have done many trials with HIDEZ over the years. People whom have used the
HIDEZ suits have experienced great results with their animals. From regular people
training at home, Veterinarians to Olympic gold medallists competing in national and
international events”.
Olympian Stuart Tinney claims to have “tested” the Hidez Suits by putting
them on 4 of his horses (including Panamera which we know broke down on
29/5/2012) before and after exercise, and during air travel. However, he also
stated in his endorsement on his Web Site, “it is virtually impossible to know
if they do the job they are suppose to (help with muscle fatigue and recovery)
we certainly think they do and endorse them.”
Discussion :
Clearly Stuart Tinney has given the game away in relation to “trials” undertaken.
There haven’t been any. Following my correspondence to the Olympic
Committees, the Tinney Eventing Website has changed. Stuart Tinney no
longer endorses the Suit on his own Website: - Hidez now appears only among
his listed sponsors. As he still seeks to obtain income as a distributor of these
Suits however, Mr. Tinney endorses the Suit by way of a 2 minute video testimonial on the Hidez Website.
We have now entered the realm of intentionally misleading the public, and
deliberately fraudulent statements by Matthew Spice. There have been no
“trials”, no research, no properly conducted scientific research with statistically significant results. He has relied solely on “perceptions” of owners and
trainers as to how their horses “feel” when wearing the Suits. This reflects
very badly on the Patenting System, for starters - in that unproven, nonvalidated “inventions” are obviously being allowed to be patented, without
any scientific validation of the claims being made.
Matthew Spice is totally confused by the terms “science” and “technology”
and can’t objectively separate the two. If it is “advanced technology” it must
be beneficial, in all its applications. In this case, the application of “science
and technology” in relation to compression garments has no relevance to
animal physiology, and there is no “scientific evidence” in existence which
can possibly justify or validate the use of compression garments on animals.
The whole subject of “sports science” has very rightly been the subject of
scrutiny, and put under the spotlight recently. It is largely vague, unsubstantiated, unproven, with unqualified practitioners exploiting the lack of knowledge
of most athletes about physiology in general and their own bodies in particular.
Unfortunately the same lack of knowledge about horse physiology applies to
a large proportion of owners and trainers of horses, who are too easily
influenced by so-called experts (generally with something to sell). This must
be addressed, and the basic level of knowledge about horse physiology and
anatomy improved through education.
Conclusion : Nobody asked questions about the Hidez Suit at any stage, especially the
most important ones: - What trials have been conducted and what scientific evidence exists validating compression garments for horses ?
- How can a full body compression garment for a horse possibly “improve” on
Nature, and the natural function of horses, which has developed over millions
of years ?
Had these questions been asked, the Hidez Compression Suit would never
have got to the stage it has reached.
SUMMARY
This has been a very difficult exercise, trying to make sense of non-sense,
and trying to logically discuss completely illogical claims, definitions and
terminology. The only thing that has made it a worthwhile project, has been
the exposure of the bizarre concepts behind the invention of the Hidez Suit;
which have revealed how terribly harmful the Suit is for horses (and all
animals). The need for greater education and more knowledge about our
animals is obvious, to prevent this and similar inventions, from being taken
seriously in the future.
It is not good enough to say that if people are unwise enough to believe
promotional jargon put out by inventors like Mr. Spice, then if their horses
suffer, are injured, or die, it is their problem, and they can’t complain. The
real victims are the horses - they are the ones who suffer and die. So some
sort of protection must be put in place. There is a huge absence of any form
of Governmental over-view preventing the indiscriminate release of products
and inventions for use with animals, without any safety assessment. No
authority exists to ensure that products do what they claim they do, and that
they are not potentially harmful to animals. This is a shocking situation, which
must be rectified as soon as possible.
Hopefully the penny will drop with Insurance Companies, who will be reluctant
to insure horses which have worn Compression Suits, along with being
unwilling to pay out on injuries to their riders. Mr. Spice may soon be so busy
defending claims against him by people who have used his Suits that he won’t
have to worry about his International Patent Pending any more. Better still, he
will find an alternative business venture not involving animals.