Madalyn 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 our Holistic Horsekeeping and Horse Harmony Facebook pages.
Q – I had contacted you earlier regarding the use of a garlic bug repellent product in conjunction with the Water Balancing Formula for my Paso Fino mare. Her behavior was more focused and calm for her on the Balancing Formula. I added the garlic supplement and her behavior became very tense and reactive to environmental stimuli. At your suggestion I stopped the garlic and continued the Balancing Formula. She is again more focused and calm. I believe she didn’t tolerate the garlic supplement and it did have a negative impact on her behavior. Thank you for your help in this matter.
A – I am so glad your horse is better and very much appreciate your follow up.
Q – I recently read your article on equine vaccines. I have to say, I was very happy to find an article that shares my views on vaccinations! One question though. I know it is recommended not to vaccinate horses with health concerns. I have one horse who is 13. He was recently diagnosed with PSSM type 2. He has been vaccinated up to this point with no problems (I’ve had him 8 years). However now with his recent diagnosis and problems, I am wondering if I should still vaccinate him at all? Please let me know what you recommend.
A – This condition is genetic so your horse is not sick like for instance, a horse with laminitis. If he does fine with the vaccines then you can continue them. Glad you found the article helpful; I also have more information on vaccination in my Vaccination Ebook.
Q – I have an Earth/ Metal Morgan mare. I feed her whole oats and Equine Challenge for grass hay also Himalayan salt block, and grass hay. When I tie her up she licks the dirt from the rail. What mineral is she lacking? Equine challenge has flax seed and a probiotic.
A – Your mare may be trying to buffer her stomach. Earth horses can be prone to stomach ulcers. If you go to www.horsetemperament.com you can look at our Earth horse balancing formula. It could help.
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