Holistic Horse Health: The Buzz From the Barn

Madalyn on horseMadalyn Ward, DVM shares her answers to specific holistic horse care questions from clients. To see more questions and answers on real holistic horse care situations check out the Horse Health Hotline postings.

Client 1:
Q – I currently have a horse with ongoing respiratory problems. The alternative practitioner near me believes that his problems originate in his stomach and I would like to know if there is any diet supplements that would help him. He is currently on pre-biotics, HS-35, oats, free choice grass hay (netted and under cover), occasional pasture and outside with shelter 24/7.

A – I would suggest you start your horse on Succeed for his digestive issues. This product helps all parts of the digestive tract but especially the large intestine. In Traditional Chinese Medicine the Lung and LI are closely related so if we can help the LI it should also help his lungs.

Client 2:
Q – Dr. Ward – have you ever used local honey to try and treat allergies? I have 2 horses here that come Spring their eyes get so watery which the flies just love. They both look miserable. I have often heard that if you eat the local honey, this can help with allergies as the local bees cross-pollinate with the weeds and flowers in your certain locale. Just was wondering. If you have – how much would you feed? And would it be safe to use on an IR mini?

A – I have heard the same about local honey but sure have no personal experience with it. I would suspect it would be a problem for an IR horse or mini. Runny eyes are often a sign of liver stress and in traditional Chinese Medicine spring is considered the most stressful season for the Liver or Wood element. Normally spring grass and cleansing weeds like dandelion would provide plenty of cleansing for the liver but blue green algae such as spirulina can also help. Years ago for my severe allergies I used these packets of bluegreen algae, probiotics and enzymes and that along with other steps to rebuild my immune system I don’t have any more trouble.

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