equine

Anxiety Reduction and Improved Physical Cooperation in Horses Through the Use of Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha)

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An Observational Clinical Study

by Tom Schell, D.V.M, CVCH, DABVP(eq)

Introduction:

Anxiety and stress in horses are a common problem in the equine industry, contributing to behavioral problems, training issues and poor performance.  In some cases, increased levels of anxiety are associated with health related issues such as gastric ulcers, which have been shown in some studies to impact a large percentage of horses, necessitating long term administration of anti-ulcer type of medications.

 Exact causes of stress in the horse can be hard to determine, but are often linked to herd issues, housing conditions, environmental factors, handling methods, training, transportation and competition.  Horses are very similar to humans in the respect that they respond better to consistency and routines on a day to day basis.  Any upset in that routine can contribute to stress formation which then manifests as behavioral issues.  Learned behaviors or responses to stress in prior environments can transfer forward even though the prior initiating factor has been resolved. 

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L-Arginine: The Missing Ingredient for Performance and Immune Enhancement

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Is it possible to enhance blood circulation, cardiac function, pump up the immune response and aid in muscle development with one ingredient?  L-arginine may just prove to be that one nutrient that is lacking from so many diets, impacting the health of people, pets and horses.  Whether if you are an Olympic athlete or just one seeking health solutions, L-arginine supplementation may prove to be of significant benefit on many levels.  Let’s take a look at the basics and what clinical research has to show.

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The Many Health Benefits of Spirulina For the Horse

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How many food sources do you know that provide the ability to rejuvenate the body, enhance energy levels, support tissue healing and repair, detoxify, support the immune response and potentially ward off dangerous cancer all in ONE?  Spirulina blue green algae has been termed one of the many wonder foods of the world and has been used traditionally in many medicinal cultures to aid in the recovery of the ill and support overall health.  It could be considered potentially the only food you could possibly ever need!

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Horse Vaccination Strategies and Tips

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If you own a horse, one of the most important things you can do to maintain health is vaccinations, but it can also be a costly endeavor.  Everyone seems to have a strategy or recommendation, but the question is ‘what is right for your horse?’.  Well, that depends on many factors including location, exposure to other horses as well as general risk factors.  Another thing to consider is that vaccines are not without harm and over administration of vaccines can prove to be harmful in some circumstances.  Let’s explore the options and recommendations.

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Impact of an Herbal and Fruit Proprietary Blend on Equine Insulin Resistance

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Introduction:

Insulin resistance in the horse has been a problem plaguing private veterinary practitioners for years if not decades. The problem seems to be getting worse and more prevalent as time progresses, which raises issues and questions as to a possible husbandry or dietary problem that are contributing to the rise in caseloads.

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