oxidative stress

Horse and Dog Health; The Impact of Free Radicals and Oxidative Stress

Free radicals are an important entity in chemistry and in health, having been researched for many years with connections to cellular changes that may impact overall health and aging.  A free radical is a molecule that has an unpaired electron in the outer shell, which creates instability and a high rate of reactivity with other molecules.  Free radicals are produced as a normal part of cellular respiration or energy production, but can also be generated as a consequence of environmental factors, stress, poor diet, food additives, medications and genetics.  In general, they can have huge negative impacts on overall health, performance and sustainability, but the good news is that with understanding, we also realize that there are things we can do to minimize the damage inflicted.

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Cushing’s Disease in the Horse (PPID)

Cushing’s disease in the horse is becoming a more popular diagnosis, creating confusion with many horse owners.  Cushing’s disease or Pituitary Pars Intermedia Dysfunction (PPID) is most commonly diagnosed in the aged horse, but is increasingly become more common in perceived younger horses with concurrent usage of medications to control the condition.  The impact of Cushing’s disease in the equine community is large, with more cases being diagnosed as the lifespan of the horse increases, and can create many management frustrations for the horse owner.  The syndrome is very complex, leaving many unanswered questions but many roads for possible exploration to enhance quality of life for these patients.

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Curcumin. The Power House of Health Protection for People and Animals

Curcumin, the “Indian Solid Gold” is one of the most cherished spices in the world.  Health is something we all take for granted, but did you know that Curcumin taken daily can bring about dramatic health changes for the positive?  Whether if you suffer from chronic joint pain, lower back pain or overall stiffness, benefits can be seen.  In horses, we battle with joint deterioration, back complaints and overall unsoundness, chasing these conditions with expensive remedies combating something that could be better managed from another standpoint.  Even in horses, dramatic changes can be evident, often creating confusion as to how something so simple can have such far reaching effects.  Pets are no different, suffering from the same clinical maladies that affect humans.  They too can benefit immensely, restoring healthy, vitality and a quest for life.  So, why is this herb so wonderful?

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

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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Managing COPD and Allergies in the Horse with an Herbal Blend

An Observational Study of a Proprietary Herbal Formula in Controlling the Clinical Signs of COPD and Allergies in Equine Patients

Tom Schell, D.V.M, DABVP, CVCH

Skin allergies and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease are two common clinical problems affecting horses, especially in the eastern and southern portions of the United States.

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