Debbie

Debbie is the founder of My Horse Supplies. She has had a lifelong love affair with horses. She currently runs an agistment centre, as well as caring for nearly 20 of her own horses.
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Unveiling the Ideal Care Protocol for Every Horse

Unveiling the Ideal Care Protocol for Every Horse

Have you ever wondered if there is a one-size-fits-all approach to caring for our equine friends? As horse owners and enthusiasts, we often find ourselves navigating through various opinions, methods, and products in an effort to provide the best care for our beloved companions.

Defining the Gold Standard of Care

It’s a common belief among horse periodicals, equestrian professionals, and even fellow horse owners that the newest technology or the most extensive or intrusive interventions are the best options. 

Additionally, it appears to be beneficial to ascertain the horse’s true health, administer the necessary medication, and keep horse owners from being overly anxious. 

However, occasionally the amount of data that is gathered truly doesn’t matter in the end. Additionally, some people cannot afford the high cost of veterinarian treatment.

Cost alone is sometimes the primary determining factor in what kind of care is given.

The truth is that there are frequently multiple approaches to treating a horse’s medical issue, all of which result in the horse recovering just fine.  The newest or priciest care isn’t always the “best” care for your horse; rather, the care that:

  • Takes into account the horse’s and your situation
  • Has a strong foundation of supporting data so that you can at least have a sense of what you’re going to get, and
  • The anticipated advantages are either considerably better than letting things take care of themselves or beyond any potential drawbacks.

Good care doesn’t mean you have to do everything possible or all at once.  What good care means is that you should adapt the approach for handling the situation to each individual case.  Good care has to be:

  1. Focused on what the horse really needs
  2. Focused on your needs, wants, expectations, and what you can really do

We all know that not every problem can be fixed, and that, sometimes, even when things can be made a little better, they don’t necessarily get all the way back to normal.

So is there a “Gold Standard” of care for every horse? No. The majority of veterinary issues can be resolved in more than one method. 

CONCLUSION

What was formerly considered “cutting edge” in medicine may turn out to be completely ineffective a few years later due to the rapid advancement of medicine. “It’s not up to you to provide the most expensive care for your horse, rather, it’s up to you to provide the care that’s most appropriate for you and your horse.” – David Ramey

Reference:

There’s No “Gold Standard” of Care for Every Horse – Dr. David Ramey

Further information:

Four Essential Keys to Keeping Horses Healthy & Happy

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Equine First Aid: Handling Level 3 Wounds in Horses

Equine First Aid: Handling Level 3 Wounds in Horses

In the intricate world of equine health, injuries and wounds are unfortunate yet inevitable aspects of a horse’s life. Among the various types of wounds, Level 3 wounds stand out as significant challenges, demanding careful attention, prompt intervention, and specialized care. 

Recognizing the gravity of these wounds is crucial for horse owners, caretakers, and equine health professionals, as the timely and appropriate response can significantly impact the healing process and long-term well-being of the horse.

This article serves as a guide in recognizing and effectively managing Level 3 wounds in horses.

Key Signs in Identifying Level 3 Wounds in Horses

  1. Depth of the Wound
  2. Visible Tissue Damage
  3. Excessive Bleeding
  4. Pain and Discomfort
  5. Abnormal Swelling
  6. Altered Range of Motion
  7. Visible Foreign Objects
  8. Changes in Behavior
  9. Foul Odor

First Aid Techniques

  1. If the wound is large enough to require bandaging, or needs protection from flies while it heals, apply Golden Honey Healing Ointment, cover the area to be bandaged with cotton wool / gauze padding and then bandage with Vet Wrap, Light Rip or Elastoplast.
  2. Generally if you’ve got to the wound quickly and done a good job of cleaning and bandaging, then it’s better to leave the bandage in place for 2-3 days at a time to give it time to work on the healing process undisturbed.
  3. To maximise the healing process, wash the wound with Colloidal Silver, not water, when changing the bandage.
  4. Make sure to check the bandages twice daily though and if they’ve slipped at all take them off and redo them. 
  5. Check regularly how the wound smells as this is a good indicator of whether it’s healing well, or needs attention. If it smells bad, then remove the bandage immediately, check for any reason for the smell such as debris not removed properly, clean the wound and reapply dressing.
  6. Colloidal Silver is good to add to their feed while they are mending as it helps to raise their immunity, and acts as an antibacterial booster. 60- 100 ml twice per day in their feed will help promote the healing and reduce infection.

Deeper cuts may require vet attention for debriding (cleaning the surface of dead tissue) or stitching prior to ointment application and bandaging. If you have any concerns with the wound, if it’s a puncture wound near a joint, or if it smells bad, then definitely call your vet. 

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, properly handling Level 3 wounds in horses is crucial for their well-being and recovery. By following the steps outlined in this article, horse owners and caretakers can effectively address these serious injuries with confidence and care. Remember to stay calm, assess the situation thoroughly, and seek professional veterinary assistance when necessary. With the right knowledge and preparation, you can provide your horse with the best possible first aid treatment in times of need. 

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Heat and Horses: Beating the Impact

Heat and Horses: Beating the Impact

The impact of heat on horses is a critical aspect of equine care that directly influences their health and performance. Horses, like many mammals, are sensitive to changes in temperature, and excessive heat can lead to a range of issues affecting their well-being. Heat stress in horses is a common concern, particularly in warm climates or during hot seasons.

Understanding Equine Thermoregulation

“When it comes to handling high temperatures, the biggest problem for horses is their geometry. The horse’s body is big and wide (that is, it has a very large volume), and it doesn’t get rid of heat well. There’s very little body surface, relative to the size of their body, from which they can get rid of heat. The bottom line for horses is that when it’s really hot, the organs inside the horse’s body stay hot even while the body surface tries to radiate heat as fast as it can.” – David Ramey

Common Signs of Heat Stress in Horses

1. Excessive Sweating

While sweating is a natural cooling mechanism, profuse or lack of sweating can signal heat stress.

2. Elevated Respiratory Rate

 An increased breathing rate is an early sign of heat stress as horses try to dissipate heat through respiration. (normally, horses, breathe 8 – 16 times per minute)

3. Increased Heart Rate

 Heat stress often leads to an elevated heart rate as the cardiovascular system works harder to cool the body.

4. Lethargy and Weakness

 Horses may exhibit signs of fatigue, lethargy, or a lack of enthusiasm for activities.

5. Decreased Appetite

Heat-stressed horses may show a reduced interest in eating, leading to potential dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.

6. Dark Urine

Concentrated or dark-colored urine may indicate dehydration, a common consequence of heat stress.

“Heat stroke can happen in horses, and, if it does, it’s an emergency that should require immediate veterinary care.” –  David Ramey

Managing Heat Stress in Horses

1. Ample Access to Water

Always provide clean and cool water in abundance. Regularly check water sources to make sure they are not too warm, and consider adding electrolytes to their water to aid hydration.

2. Shade and Ventilation

Ensure horses have access to shaded areas in the pasture or stable. Adequate ventilation is crucial; allow a breeze to flow through stables or use fans if possible.

3. Adjust Turnout Times

Schedule turnout and exercise during the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late evening, to minimize exposure to peak temperatures.

4. Cooling with Water

Use a hose to cool your horse down with water, especially after exercise. Focus on areas like the neck, chest, and legs. Scraping off excess water aids in the cooling process.

5. Misting Systems

If available, install misting systems in stables to provide a cooling effect. These can be particularly helpful in arid climates.

6. Appropriate Grooming

Trim excess hair to help with heat dissipation, but avoid excessive clipping, as horses’ coats provide natural insulation.

7. Salt Intake

Ensure access to salt blocks or provide salt in their feed to encourage electrolyte balance. Horses lose salts through sweating, and replenishing them is essential.

8. Monitor Signs of Stress

Regularly check for signs of heat stress, including elevated respiratory and heart rates, lethargy, and excessive sweating. Take prompt action if any signs are observed.

9. Proper Nutrition

Adjust feeding schedules to avoid heavy meals during the hottest parts of the day. Feed smaller, more frequent meals to reduce the metabolic heat generated during digestion.

10. Emergency Preparedness

Have a plan in case of emergencies. Know the signs of severe heat stress and have the contact information for a veterinarian readily available.

CONCLUSION

By taking preventive measures and implementing proactive heat management strategies, horse owners can create an environment that minimizes the risk of heat-related issues. 

Reference:

Horses in the Heat

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Hidden Benefits of Grooming Gloves for Ultimate Equine Care

Hidden Benefits of Grooming Gloves for Ultimate Equine Care

Are you tired of spending hours brushing and grooming your horse, only to find that there are still those pesky loose hairs and dirt particles lurking beneath the surface? Well, it’s time to say goodbye to traditional grooming tools. Welcome to a revolutionary solution: grooming gloves! These gloves make the process easier and more efficient and offer hidden benefits.

  • Enhanced bonding and connection with horses

The gentle massage-like motion creates a sense of relaxation and trust between you and your equine companion. This tactile experience not only relaxes the horse physically but also mentally, fostering a stronger bond.

Furthermore, grooming gloves provide an excellent opportunity for body language communication. As you run your hands over their coat, you’ll become more attuned to subtle changes in their body language. You may notice areas that are particularly sensitive or uncomfortable for them. It will give you invaluable insights into any potential health issues or discomfort they may be experiencing. This allows for targeted care or veterinary attention, ensuring their well-being.

  • Improved circulation and muscle relaxation

The soft rubber nodules on these gloves stimulate blood flow as you gently massage your horse’s coat. This increased circulation provides essential nutrients to the cells. It also helps remove toxins from the body. As a result, your horse’s coat will become shinier and healthier-looking.

Additionally, the gentle pressure applied by grooming gloves can help relax muscles. And can soothe tension, providing a calming effect on your horse. Relaxed muscles help reduce the risk of strains or injuries during physical activities such as riding or training.

  • Easy removal of loose hair and dirt

Grooming gloves lift away loose hair and dirt with just a gentle stroke. The soft rubber nodules on the surface of the glove work like magnets. It attracts all the loose debris with just a gentle swipe. These gloves do not yank or pull at the hair, making them perfect for sensitive areas such as the legs and face. Regular use reduces shedding and ensures thorough cleaning, saving time and energy.

  • Gentle exfoliation for healthier skin

Grooming gloves offer a softer touch. But still effectively removes dirt and dead skin cells from your horse’s coat. This gentle exfoliation not only keeps your horse looking clean and shiny but also promotes healthier skin. Because it improves circulation and allows nutrients to reach their skin more effectively.

Regular use prevents common skin issues like dryness and irritation.

  • Effective massage therapy for horses

Effective massage therapy has many benefits for equine care. It can help relieve tension and soreness in the muscles. It can improve flexibility and range of motion. As well as reduce inflammation and even aid in preventing injuries.

The soft rubber bristles mimic the feeling of human fingers, allowing you to apply just the right amount of pressure while improving blood circulation and promoting muscle relaxation. Not only does this help relieve tension and stress in your horse, but it also provides them with a sense of comfort and well-being.

CONCLUSION

Grooming gloves are an essential part of your tool kit to improve your horse’s health and happiness. It helps in providing gentle, efficient dirt removal. And hidden benefits like improved blood circulation, relaxation, and strengthened bonds.

Recommended product:

https://myhorsesupplies.com.au/product/horse-grooming-gloves/

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Spring is Here and So are Hay Issues – Find Out How to Combat Them!

Spring is Here and So are Hay Issues - Find Out How to Combat Them!

Spring is in the air, and while that may bring joy to many, it also brings some common hay-related issues that can affect horses’ health and well-being. In this article, we will explore common hay issues and some practical tips to combat these springtime hay woes and keep your horse happy and healthy.

Common hay issues in the spring

  • Mold and moisture issues

Increased humidity and moisture in the air can lead to mold growth in hay, which can cause respiratory problems in horses and, in severe cases, digestive issues. During spring, rising temperatures and higher humidity can make stored hay damp, creating conditions for bacterial growth and the potential for hay spoilage or spontaneous combustion if not dealt with quickly.

  • Dust

 Dust is a common issue with hay, and it can be exacerbated in the spring when horses are shedding their winter coats. Dusty hay can lead to respiratory issues like heaves or coughing.

  • Weeds

In spring, weeds can grow in horse pastures and end up in harvested hay. These weeds vary in toxicity levels and can reduce the nutritional quality of the pasture or hay, potentially causing digestive issues or other health problems for horses.

  • Insect Infestations

Warmer spring weather can attract insects to stored hay. Insect infestations can not only reduce the quality of the hay but can also make it less palatable to horses. 

  • High Sugar Content

Spring grass and some hays harvested during this season can have a higher sugar content. This can be problematic for horses prone to metabolic issues like laminitis.

  • Nutritional Changes

 The nutrient content of hay can vary with the season, as well as the stage of growth at which it was harvested. In the spring, hay may have higher moisture content and lower fiber levels, which can impact its nutritional value.

Tips for combating hay issues

  • Hay Quality Selection

– Choose high-quality hay that is free from mold, dust, and contamination. Look for clean, green, and leafy hay with a fresh smell.

– Consider having your hay tested for nutritional content so that you can balance your horse’s diet effectively.

  • Proper storage and ventilation 

– Store hay in a dry, well-ventilated area, such as a barn or shed, to prevent moisture buildup and mold growth.  

– Elevate hay off the ground and use pallets or racks to improve air circulation.

– Cover hay with tarps or plastic sheets to protect it from rain or humidity.

– Some horse owners even choose to wet down their hay slightly before feeding, which can help reduce airborne dust particles further.

  • Regular Inspection

– Regularly inspect hay bales for signs of mold, dust, or contamination. Remove any affected bales immediately to prevent feeding them to your horse.

– Check for foreign objects, weeds, or noxious plants in the hay and remove them before feeding.

– If you are concerned about your hay being moldy or are experiencing a fungus outbreak in your pasture, for example, Paspalum ergot fungus or certain strains of endophyte perennial Rye grass, consider a toxin binder such as Mycosorb A+.

  • Monitor Sugar Intake

– If your horse is sensitive to sugars or at risk of metabolic disorders, limit access to high-sugar hay, particularly in the spring when grass and hay may have elevated sugar content.

– Consider soaking hay in water for about 30 minutes before feeding to reduce sugar content.

  • Consult a Professional

– Consult with a veterinarian or equine nutritionist for guidance on your horse’s specific dietary needs and any health concerns related to hay or forage.

CONCLUSION

By following these tips and maintaining a vigilant approach to your horse’s diet and living conditions, you can help combat common hay-related issues and ensure the well-being of your equine companion.

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Hidden Gems for Equine Wellness: Three Essential Supplements

Hidden Gems for Equine Wellness: Three Essential Supplements

Are you looking to enhance the wellness of your equine companion? In this article, we will unveil three hidden gems that are essential for the health and happiness of your horse. These supplements may not be commonly known, but they have a significant impact on your horse’s wellbeing.

  • SALT

 Salt is often underestimated, but horses actually need a significant amount of it in their diet. In fact, according to Dr. Kellon, it is a universal requirement for horses around the world.

A lack of salt can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. Whereas, supplementing salt ensures optimal hydration. It also enhances digestion and mineral absorption and maintains normal nervous and muscular function.

So, it is important for horse owners to provide a consistent source of salt in their daily diet. For those worried about overconsumption, studies show that horses have an innate ability to self-regulate their intake based on their body’s needs.

  • OMEGA-3 FATTY ACIDS 

Omega-3 deficiency occurs when not in a fresh grass diet. Fatty acids do not survive long in cut and baled hay. Grains, bran, etc. are also low in omega-3s.

Omega-3 fatty acids are typically thought of as important to anti-inflammatory balance. However, two studies have also demonstrated that taking supplements generally improves immune system responses. Additionally, they play a crucial role in the growth and wellbeing of the brain and eyes, and might affect how young horses behave.

  • VITAMIN E

Like omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin E deficiency also occurs when not in a fresh grass diet.

This essential nutrient is crucial for muscle function and repair. Thus, it is especially important for active horses or those recovering from injuries. But if they don’t get enough vitamin E, it can have a serious impact on their immunity, nerves, and muscle function.

Ensuring your horse receives an adequate amount of vitamin E through their diet or supplementation is essential for their overall well-being.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, providing horses with the right supplements is crucial for their overall health and well-being. Salt, omega 3, and vitamin E are three essential supplements that can greatly benefit horses. By incorporating these supplements into your horse’s diet, you can help them thrive and enjoy a happy, healthy life.

Reference:

Three Supplements Every Horse Needs

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Proven First Aid Techniques for Treating Horse Bites and Stings

Proven First Aid Techniques for Treating Horse Bites and Stings

Whether you’re an experienced equestrian or a casual horse enthusiast, it’s crucial to be prepared for unexpected incidents such as bites and stings. Fear not! In this article, we will explore some proven first aid techniques for treating horse bites and stings. It’s essential to know how to handle such situations effectively. So saddle up and get ready to learn how to provide immediate relief for both you and your equine companion!

FIRST-AID TREATMENT

         1. Apple Cider Vinegar (dilute quarter of a cup in 1 litre of water for a soothing external wash)  

If the skin is unbroken, then a wash with ACV will help to cool the area and take out soreness and stinging. 

         2. Apis homeopathic drops (for insect bites and stings)  

Apis homeopathics provide soothing relief for swelling, oedema, burning & stinging pains. Use for insect bites and stings. Apis Mel is from Honey Bees and is a perfect match for clearing the itching and swelling of insect bites, bee stings, wasp, hornet, mosquito, and other flying insects.

Put a few drops of Apis onto the area that is swollen, and a dropper full onto the horse’s tongue. 

       3. Antihistamine, eg. Polaramine 

For extreme swelling, where the horse has been bitten multiple times then you may need an antihistamine to reduce the allergic reaction. If you have antihistamines from your vet, then use them. We’ve had good results from giving Polaramine or Telfast when vet supplied antihistamines are not available.

A full size adult horse will normally respond quite well to double a human dose, with reduction in the swelling obvious within 1-2 hours if it’s going to work. Can be followed up with an additional dose in 6-12 hours (depending on the strength given) if deemed necessary. 

Make sure to inspect the horse thoroughly for ticks, and remove, particularly if the swelling is under the belly or in the groin area.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, while horse bites and stings can be painful and alarming, there are several proven first aid techniques that can help alleviate the discomfort and promote healing. However, it is always important to seek professional medical advice if the symptoms persist or worsen. By following these techniques and taking prompt action, you can ensure the safety and well-being of both yourself and your horse.

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Forage Only vs. Grain Only or Combination: Which is Best for Your Horse?

Forage Only vs. Grain Only or Combination: Which is Best for Your Horse?

When it comes to feeding our horses, one of the most important decisions we have to make is whether to provide them with forage only, grain only, or a combination of both. But which option is best for our horses? In this article, we will explore the benefits and drawbacks of each feeding method. Also shed light on what constitutes a healthy diet for these magnificent creatures.

Forage Only: Pros and Cons

  • Forage is the major source of protein.
  • Hay is an excellent source of vitamin D and B vitamins.
  • Live grass is a rich source of omega-6 and omega-3.
  • Forage alone cannot meet the needed calories and carbohydrates for horses doing physically demanding work.
  • Hay has fewer calories and carbohydrates than live grass.
  • When hay is cured, it rapidly loses vitamins C, E, and, over time, the vitamin A precursor carotene. Cured hay also loses its omega-3.

Grain-Only Diet: Pros and Cons

  • Grains are low in omega-3 and high in omega-6.
  • Grains are not inherently balanced, but manufacturers can add what is needed to help meet minimum levels.
  • Grains can help meet the calorie and carbohydrate requirements for horses doing demanding work.

Combination Diet: Finding the Right Balance

Hay or grass contains all the nutritionally essential minerals, although not necessarily in the correct minimum amounts or ratios. Grains are not inherently balanced either, but manufacturers can add what is needed to help meet minimum levels.

Tip: The best technique to determine what should be added to the diet to balance hay is through hay analysis. To find out the typical values for the regions where the hay was grown, you can also contact your local agricultural extension agent or the state agriculture department.

Conclusion

In conclusion, forage is essential for the health and well-being of horses, but it may not provide all the necessary nutrients for an active or working horse. On the other hand, a grain-only diet can lead to numerous health issues and should be used sparingly. The best approach seems to be a combination of high-quality forage and balanced grains to meet the specific needs of each individual horse.

Reference:
https://drkhorsesense.wordpress.com/2023/06/12/whats-in-your-hay/

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Combat Bruising and Swelling with These Proven First-Aid Strategies!

Combat Bruising and Swelling with These Proven First-Aid Strategies!

Bruising and swelling are common ailments that can be caused by a variety of factors. Good thing is there are several first-aid strategies you can try to combat these issues and help your horse feel better.

In this article, we’ll discuss some effective ways to treat bruises and swelling in horses using items you may already have on hand. From ice packs to natural remedies, we’ve got you covered with easy-to-implement solutions that will have your horse back on his feet in no time! So let’s delve into the world of equine first aid and get your four-legged friend back to his best self.

First-Aid Strategies for Bruising and Swelling

If the skin is unbroken, then a wash with Apple Cider Vinegar will help to cool the area and take out soreness and bruising. Icing the area can also help with reducing the swelling. 

Note: For Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV), dilute quarter of a cup in 1 litre of water for a soothing external wash.

If the swelling is from possible infection, then wetting the area thoroughly with Colloidal Silver can help with reducing the infection as well as the swelling.

Arnica is brilliant to follow up with as it is an anti-inflammatory and pain relieving agent. It helps disperse the blood from the area, reduces the pain, and promotes circulation. A dropper of liquid in the mouth, and or drops / ointment on the area. 

If the knock has been on a bony area then using comfrey ointment can help stimulate repair of the bones, and reduce the bone bruising. 

CONCLUSION:

In conclusion, as horse owners, we cannot avoid the risk of our horses getting injured. But, we can take measures to reduce the severity of bruising and swelling when an injury occurs. By implementing these first-aid strategies, we can help our equine friends heal faster and more comfortably.

Image by khamkhor from Pixabay

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Four Essential Keys to Keeping Horses Healthy & Happy

Four Essential Keys to Keeping Horses Healthy & Happy

Horses are wonderful companions that can bring us so much joy. But along with the pleasure comes the responsibility of caring for them. Looking after a horse is more than just providing food and water. There are four essential keys to keeping horses healthy and happy. This claim is supported by research conducted in Germany and Scotland back in 2021.

The four essential keys are:

  • Social Contact
  • Social Companionship
  • Free Movement
  • Access to roughage

Researchers examined 38 studies that examined what occurs to horses when one or more of the four items on the list are restricted. The findings and their consequences for how we keep horses are interesting, as are the conclusions themselves. To access the complete study, CLICK HERE.

SOCIAL CONTACT

Horses are naturally herd animals and they thrive on interaction with other horses or even other animals. In a natural setting, they live in large groups, with about 200–400 horses comprising a herd. This size herd is large enough to sustain healthy genetic diversity. It may be divided into smaller family groups for daily activity within the full herd structure with a stallion and a group of mares and foals, as well as small bachelor groups of young colts. 

 SOCIAL COMPANIONSHIP

About one third of all horses form stable social bonds with members of their subgroup. Bonded animals mutually protect each other and their offspring, as well as protecting resources such as food, water and resting places.

FREE MOVEMENT

Horses are naturally active animals that need space to move about freely. Under natural conditions, they travel up to 50 km daily.  They need regular exercise to maintain good circulation and prevent stiffness in their joints. It also contributes to their mental well-being. Regular exercise keeps them active and engaged, which reduces stress and promotes a positive attitude.

ACCESS TO ROUGHAGE

In nature, horses feed on grass for 12 to 16 h per day.  Their digestive system is designed for grazing on grass or hay throughout the day. Access to quality hay ensures they receive enough fiber and nutrients needed for their optimal health.

CONCLUSION

All animals have requirements that are essential for their welfare. And when these basic needs are not met, the animal suffers. By understanding these four essential keys, you will be well on your way to keeping your horse healthy and happy.

 

References:

https://www.doctorramey.com/the-horses-four-basic-needs/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8235049/#app1-animals-11-01798

Image by Ralf Siebeck from Pixabay