The Up & Up
Information on horse health is so important — one article can be the difference in recognizing a life-threatening issue. That said, the information can be overwhelming and full of warnings that get an understandable concerned reader fearing the worst. For the worried reader, here are a few signs your horse is happy, healthy and thriving, according to the folks at Blue Cross, a charity organization focused on animal quality of life and welfare.
First, how is your horse behaving? Happy horses are generally lively, alert and responsive to their surroundings. The barn can be a noisy place, and we want our horses to appear vigilant and aware. Happy horses also interact with their friends! Of course, we aren’t talking about that one mare who stands in the corner, ears pinned. Horses are herd animals and are largely social. When they have space to do so, they should interact and move freely without hindrance.
Next, how do they look? Healthy horses who are getting the right daily nutrition have a shiny, smooth coat. Just like you and me, when horses are eating right, exercising and drinking enough water, it shows on the surface. You’ll see their coat growing and glowing and notice the brightness in their eyes, which should be clear and bright white on the outside.
Finally, what’s left in their feed bucket? Horses that feel well eat well. A healthy appetite is just that — healthy! We don’t want to see remnants of breakfast in the feed pan at night nor days-old hay piling up in the corner. With the right diet, horses are generally eager to eat and lick their plates clean. They need that fuel to perform their best in the arena.
Here’s to happy, healthy, social, shiny, hungry horses!
Spring Horse Health Products classic equine insulated medical box
Be prepared for anything with the Classic Equine Insulated Medical Box, the essential tool every horse owner. This sleek cooler design keeps important medications at the right temperature, ensuring they stay chilled with the help of two removable ice packs. The box’s size allows medications to be safely stored upright, while the tight clasp reliably keeps it closed during transport. A sturdy handle makes it easy to carry wherever you go. Monitor the internal temperature effortlessly with the external digital thermometer located on top of the box so you don’t have to open the lid. It also includes a removable divider for better organization. The cooler’s outside dimensions are 11 inches by 8 inches by 9 inches, with inside dimensions of 10 inches by 6.5 inches by 6 inches, offering a total volume of 6.4 quarts. Batteries are not included, but the digital thermometer requires either a 357 or LR44 coin cell battery. Visit classicequine.com for more information.
Slide HA+ Advanced joint lubrication for elite equine athletes
Slide ha+ Advanced Joint Lubrication for Elite Equine Athletes is a brand-new supplement revolutionizing the treatment of equine degenerative joint disease with clinical doses of high molecular weight hyaluronic acid. The supplement includes 5,000 milligrams of hyaluronic acid per two recommended daily servings, as well as N-acetyl glucosamine and hydrolyzed collagen, and 2,000 milligrams of collage type II; this supplement provides try therapeutic benefits for joints, intervertebral discs, ligaments and tendons. Visit slidejointcare.com for more information.
Bimeda Equimax (ivermectin 1.87%/praziquantel 14.03) oral paste
EquiMAX is made with a smooth, quick-dissolving apple flavoring and is easily and accurately dispensed with the EZE-GRIP syringe. It includes protection against all major parasites of concern, including tapeworms, bots, small and large strongyles, roundworms, lungworms, pinworms, hairworms, largemouth stomach worms, threadworms and summer sores. One syringe of EquiMAX provides treatment for one horse up to 1,320 pounds and is the only combination ivermectin/praziquantel dewormer safe for use in horses and foals 4 weeks of age and older, stallions and breeding, pregnant and lactating mares. Visit equimaxhorse.com for more information.
classic equine ceramic sheet
The Ceramic Sheet is made with ceramic-infused threads woven into the mesh fabric, which helps alleviate inflammation caused by injury or daily riding. The ceramic material absorbs the horse’s body heat and then emits far infrared rays back into the body, increasing circulation. This helps bring immune cells and oxygen to affected areas while reducing inflammation. It provides a simple, hands-free form of therapy to support your horse’s recovery. Adjustable nylon leg straps, crossover adjustable belly straps, and stainless steel closures ensure a customized fit. Visit classicequine.com for more information.
metacare
Brought to you by Equithrive, the leaders in Resveratol science, MetaCare is a new pelleted daily supplement offering metabolic support for your easy keeper. MetaCare was formulated by Dr. Pat Lawless to support optimum carbohydrate and fat metabolism, healthy body weight and appropriate insulin levels in your horse. MetaCare contains Resveratol, a natural stilbene antioxidant that enhances metabolic function and supports a healthy inflammatory response in the body, including hoof tissues. MetaCare also includes flavonoid antioxidants (hesperidin and diosim) that promote healthy body weight and amino acids that are building blocks for key enzymes that regulate metabolism and control insulin levels. Visit equithrive.com/products/metacare-pellets for more information.
Cashel’s Crusader Fly Masks are among the top-voted fly masks year after year and are trusted by horsemen of all backgrounds to protect their horses from flies. The Cashel Crusader Fly Mask With Ears is made from soft-coated nylon micromesh, making it a very comfortable choice for fly protection for your horse. Its patented three-hole cap and double dart construction keep the material well away from sensitive eyes, lashes and temples without damaging the forelock, providing a more natural and complete field of vision. The Crusader blocks up to 70% of the sun’s damaging UV rays, protecting horses from eye problems and sunburn. This mask is great for horses that have greater sensitivity to the sun and lighter-skinned horses. It also protects your horse’s ears from insects and other pests. Visit cashelcompany.com for more information.
Vetericyn hoof care, hoof soak & equine shampoo
FoamCare Equine Medicated Shampoo treats ringworm, girth itch, scratches, dry, itchy skin and other fungal disorders. Featured ingredients include ketoconazole, aloe leaf extract, hyaluronic acid and mushroom extract. Vetericyn’s new Mobility hoof products tackle common ailments like thrush, seedy toe, white line separation and abscesses. Hoof Care sprays onto the sole and frog and is proven to clean, flush out contaminants and repair damaged hooves quickly. Available in an 8-ounce bottle with a precision applicator. Mobility Hoof Soak is for abscesses and advanced cases of white line separation and thrush. It penetrates deep into the hoof cavity to purge and remove hoof-eating microbes. Guaranteed to improve hoof condition after just one application. Visit vetericyn.com/horse for more information.
tough1 easy breathe v-nose grazing muzzleSeven-way adjustable fit, available in seven sizes. Visit tough1.com for more information.
equi-bone by tlc animal nutrition
Optimal balance of nutrients to support healthy bones. Visit tlcanimalnutrition.com
for more
information.
ocd pellets from doc’s products
Maintain, protect and restore horses’ bones and joints at all stages of life. Visit docproductsinc.com for more information.
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