HORSE BREEDS WITH GENETIC PROBLEMS THAT MAY NEED SUPPLEMENTS

 Horse breeds can make a big difference in how you care for and feed a horse.  Different breeds of horses are susceptible to different genetic problems and knowing these problems will give you the inside scoop on what foods and supplements they need to stay healthy.

Factors to take into consideration are horse breeds, body type, age, and usage of your horse.  Just as in humans, older horses can’t always keep up with the younger ones, and pain and ailments are more common.

This important information will dictate the amount of energy your horse requires to help them perform physical activities or even life-giving functions like blood circulation. This energy comes from their diet and supplements they eat every day.

While grazing areas may be plentiful, they aren’t always full of the right nutrients that different horse breeds need over a long period of time.

Many times the genetic problems can be helped with the right diet and supplements.  This could be something as simple as grain, or something more complex like vitamins and other healing supplements.

Understanding Supplements for Horse Breeds

Different supplements are made for different purposes and you need to know how they work and what they are to be used for.  Supplements are meant to complement an already good feeding program.  Below are eight dietary categories that may benefit from supplements.

• Behavioural issues
• Vitamins and minerals
• Joint and bone issues
• Metabolic disorders
• Weight gain/loss
• Performance enhancement
• Hoof and coat health
• Enhanced immune treatment

Horse Breeds with Possible Genetic Problems

Quarter Horses – They have possible PSSM Type 1which includes muscle weakness and atrophy.

Miniature Horses – These small horses are prone to obesity and dislocated hips

Thoroughbreds and Standardbreds – They can, while rare, produce foals with OLWS as well as a genetic component called tying-up.

Draft Horses – They have two genetic problems.  They are PSSM and junctional epidermolysis bullosa (JEB)

All Other Horse Breeds – They may have genetic problems not discovered yet but all horse breeds experience illnesses that can be helped with supplements.

In cold weather, all horse breeds get coughs and colds so it’s important to treat with supplements for that as well. 

Horses can get nervous or have trouble staying engaged.  There are so many things to know about taking care of different horse breeds.  Below are a few supplements that can help some of these problems and illnesses.

As most equine owners know,  a horse needs digestive support, joint and bone health maintenance.  There coats and hooves need frequent care as well. 

If any of your horses are showing symptomatic signs like the ones above be sure and talk to your vet to see if supplements are the right treatment course.

 What Supplements Can Help These Horse Breeds?

Free Mover

Herbal Calmer (with Valerian)

Red Beets (anti-inflammatory)

There are many more supplements available, depending on what your horse’s needs are.  You know your horse and in what areas they may be experiencing difficulties.  Horses are like part of the family, so give them the best!

Heat Stroke in Dogs – What You Should Know

Humans are not the only ones on the planet that can fall prey to heatstroke.  Dogs and other animals can find themselves in this heated situation as well.  Because many dogs live outdoors they are more susceptible to having a heat stroke.  In fact, heat stroke in dogs happens more often than you might think.

A dog’s normal temperature is already higher than humans, coming in at around 101 degrees so excessive heat and certain medical conditions can be extremely dangerous for them.

Heat stroke in dogs is medically known as hyperthermia and this usually occurs if the dog’s temperature is 106 or over.  This can be very serious and lead to multiple organ malfunctions.

Symptoms of Heat Stroke in Dogs

Excessive panting

Dehydration

Excess drooling

High body temp

Unconsciousness

Muscle tremors

Seizures

Rapid or irregular heartbeat

Reddened gums

Small to no urination

Sudden kidney failure

Breathing distress

Vomiting

Blood in stool

Changes in mental status

  

Causes and Risk Factors of Heat Stroke in Dogs

Excessive heat

Upper airway disease

Poisoning

Excessive exercise

Overweight

Thick hair coat

Age-related problems

History of heart disease

As you can see there are more reasons than just excessive heat that can cause a heatstroke in your dog so knowing what to look for could very well save their life!

Initial Treatment for Heat Stroke in Dogs

Of course you want to get your dog to the vet as soon as possible; however, there are things you can do to help your dog beforehand.  The temperature of your dog will let you know how serious or minor the overheating is.  A rectal thermometer can be used for this determination.

First, remove the dog from the hot area if they are in the sun.  Move inside whenever possible.  Next, you should put cool wet towels around the dog’s neck, under their armpits, and their hind legs.  This will start cooling them down and give them some relief.

If your dog is small enough to be put into the bathtub with cool water, that is best.  Add a pinch of salt to help replace some of the minerals they have lost.

You don’t want your dog to get aspiration pneumonia so be sure and keep its head elevated while in the tub.

Doing these few things may help your dog survive until they reach the vet.  If your dog is unconscious, then skip this step and head right to the vet.  In either case, a trip to the vet is in order.

Dogs need plenty of water and shelter from the heat so it’s important to think about where their shelter outside is and how many hours per day they may be in the sun.  Think about what time of day the sun hits their shelter.  If its morning time they should be fine, but if the hottest part of the day shines on their shelter then it’s probably too hot for some dogs.  Improper shelters are one of the main causes of heat stroke in dogs. 

This problem can be fixed by simply turning their dog house to face another direction or building some kind of canvas or wood awning that protects them from the sun.

Other reasons for heat stroke in dogs can be poor health issues.  These are usually respiratory issues that stop them from being able to pant correctly or problems like breathing too fast.  Problems like these can cause a dog to overheat and experience the same symptoms as a dog that was left out in the heat too long.

Keeping your dog’s immune system healthy includes keeping their blood, respiratory, digestive tract, and other functions operating correctly.  This can be helped tremendously with health supplements.  Natural supplements can help with these problems and also help become an organic immune booster as well as being natural antibiotics and antiseptics.

Dogs truly are man’s best friend and they are great companions.  They are part of your family and understanding how to recognize and treat heatstroke in dogs will hopefully keep them in your family for years to come.

Pets and Fireworks –How to Soothe Your Pets Nerves Naturally this Guy Fawkes

Pets and fireworks are usually a pretty bad mix. Using herbal remedies to help your pets at this stressful time can be hugely beneficial. Herbs for human health are becoming more and more popular each day.  Health shops are packed with herbal tonics to cleanse our bodies and build our immune system.  However finding herbs to help your pets can be slightly more tricky so you may not have even thought about using herbs for your animals health.

Guy Fawkes of course is a modern day phenomena but one in which our animals still have to get though somehow. The stress of the week leading up to Guy Fawkes can upset and terrify animals therefore we need to do what we can to protect them.

Did you that long before humans lived on this planet, wild animals survived by using plants for their healing properties.  Our modern day medicine is mainly derived from nature and scientists have spent years mimicking the active elements found in herbs.   Therefore what is available to reunite our animals with what nature intended? 

Guy Fawkes has long been a terrifying week in the life of many pets. With the constant threat of loud bangs and explosions you will find many dogs and cats cowering in complete anxiety with little means of escape.

Where-as humans might reach in the cupboard for a cup of Chamomile tea or a rescue remedy to calm the nerves, a dog or cat can also benefit from natural remedies. Natural alternatives such as calming herbs can be given to your dog or cat to provide relief from overstretched nerves. Herbs can be used as a gentle sedative, giving the animal some extra resources to survive this stressful time of year.

Herbs such as chamomile, vervain, lemon balm and skullcap have been used for centuries as calming nerve tonics. They are said to help re-balance the nervous system and can be a wonderful natural method of soothing an emotional upset or case of anxiety.

Supplementing a dog or cats’s diet with calming herbs can be an important part of a happy pets life. “Herbs can be a safe and natural way of improving your animals sense of enjoyment in life.  They are also packed with vitamins and minerals that help work towards a balanced nervous system”.

Dogs that are hyperactive or are nervous can often have an unbalanced internal system. This sometimes has an effect on the skin, behaviour and digestion.   A mixture of calming herbs will help soothe the nervous system and aid digestion.  The herbs also work by relaxing the muscles and the gut without causing the drowsy state that conventional sedatives can induce”.

Supplementing a pets diet with herbal supplements can help fitness, vitality and their general health. The active elements in herbs work by supporting the liver, digestive system, lymphatic and urinary system, thus strengthening and building the immune system.

Today’s modern dog has to cope with a number of stressful situations and Guy Fawkes is just one of them.  This can have an effect on a dog’s happiness and health and the use herbs can be an effective tool for dealing with this. Using herbs for your dog’s health can also provide life long benefits.  Auckland based vet Jim Powell from Vets’ Corner in Takanini explains; “One of the advantages of using herbal supplements is that they allow for early intervention before clinical signs become severe. Medicinal herbs are a time honored tradition and when used in conjunction with modern science have proven to be extremely beneficial to our four legged friends”. 

If you have a fearful pet around this time of year you could consider adding calming herbs to their diet. I would recommend feeding these herbs for the week or two leading up to Guy Fawkes and of course make sure your precious pet is kept safely inside with a good place to hide on the night.

Brookby Herbs “Organic Dog” range of New Zealand are a fully organically certified range of concentrated natural nutrition in liquid form and are available on-line or through selected vets and saddlery stores.

For a free on-line herbal guide “37 herbs and remedies for fabulously healthy animals” send an email to info@brookbyherbs.co.nz or visit www.brookbyherbs.co.nz

What's in Nature's Medicine Chest for Horse Allergies and Hayfever?

Does your horse suffer from horse allergies and hayfever like symptoms? Spring and summer can certainly be the time of year when such unpleasant problems can make themselves known. Just like humans, horses can suffer the horrible effects of hayfever but luckily there are some wonderful herbs available to ease the discomfort.

Hayfever in horses can often manifest as a recurrent cold like symptom with coughing and streaming eyes. It can be like a constant recurrent cold which your horse never seems to fully recover from. The lungs can become inflamed and your horse can be more susceptible to infections. Head shaking is another possible symptom. He may be tired and lethargic and generally seem quite miserable.

There are different causes to allergic respiratory problems. There are molds, spores and weeds which can be found in hay or even in the pastures during spring and summer. The body can become sensitive to these elements and cause an allergic reaction. When feeding hay it is wise to wet the hay so you are decreasing the dust element.

Your vet will be able to possibly find the cause using a  procedure that looks at the fluid and cells in the horse's lungs to see how bad the allergy is. There is also a blood test that can determine what 'in fact your horse is allergic to which in turn will make it a lot easier to treat.

From a herbal perspective the horses immune system is usually seen to be quite low. You therefore can start treatment by boosting the immune system early in the season. Herbs such as Echinacea, Garlic. Rosehips and Kelp are all great general immune boosting herbs. Echinacea and Garlic will also be helpful for fighting any infection that may be developing.

Natural expectorants can help soothe a cough and clear the passages, making breathing easier for your horse. . Herbs such as Mullein and Marshmallow are 2 such herbs . Vitamins found in herbs can help restore damaged tissues and build up the immune system also.

Natural antihistamines have an important part to play when it comes to allergies. Horseradish is a lovely effective herb and can help reduce streaming eyes and some of the uncomfortable symptoms. Also calming down an over reactive nervous system with herbs such as chamomile is a great way to go.

It is most effective to start addressing allergy problems well before the season begins. If you work on building the immune system early then being prepared with your herbal toolkit then you will find it possible to make a real difference in your horses life.

Visit this page for Brookby Herbs "Sneeze Free" formulation

Calming Herbs for Anxious or Nervous Dogs

Using herbal remedies for human health is becoming more and more popular each day. Health shops are packed with herbal tonics to cleanse our system and build our immune system. For example Echinacea and St Johns Wort are now common herbal remedies that most people are aware of.

However have you ever thought about using herbs for your animals health?

Long before humans lived on this planet, wild animals survived by using plants for their healing properties. Our modern day medicine is mainly derived from nature and scientists have spent years mimicking the active elements found in herbs. Therefore isn’t it our duty to reunite our animals diet with what nature intended?

Supplementing a dogs diet with herbal supplements can help fitness, vitality and their general health. The active elements in herbs work by supporting the liver, digestive system, lymphatic and urinary system, thus strengthening and building the immune system.

Herbs can also help with emotional problems. Dogs that are hyperactive or are nervous often have an unbalanced system. This sometimes has an effect on the skin, behaviour and digestion. Jackie Rive, owner and founder of the New Zealand company Organic Dog recommends using calming herbs such as Chamomile, Scullcap and Vervain, to help desensitise the nervous system; “These herbs reduce the anxiety or excitability that your dog may be experiencing. A mixture of calming herbs will help sooth the nervous system and aid digestion. The herbs also work by relaxing the muscles and the gut without causing the drowsy state that conventional sedatives can induce”.

Organic Dog understands that today’s dog has to cope with a number of stressful situations. Being left alone at home whilst the owner is at work or being left at boarding kennels during vacations can result in separation anxiety. This can have an effect on a dog’s happiness and health. Adjusting to a new environment or accepting a new home are also situations where a dog may act out of character because of stress.

Where-as humans might reach in the cupboard for a cup of Chamomile tea or a rescue remedy to calm the nerves or boost the immune system, a dog can also benefit from natural remedies. Supplementing a dog’s diet with calming herbs can be an important part of a happy dogs life. “Herbs are a very safe and natural way of improving your animals sense of enjoyment in life. Herbs are also packed with vitamins and minerals that also help work towards a balanced nervous system”.

Using herbs for your dog’s health can also provide life long benefits. Auckland based vet Jim Powell from Vets’ Corner in Takanini explains; “One of the advantages of using herbal supplements is that they allow for early intervention before clinical signs become severe. Medicinal herbs are a time honored tradition and when used in conjunction with modern science have proven to be extremely beneficial to our four legged friends”. 

visit www.brookbyherbs.co.nz for calming organically certified herbal extracts for dogs and cats.

Health Food for Horses!

Want to feed your horses treats which they love and are good for them too? Here are a few of nature's health foods for horses.

By Jackie Rive at www.brookbyherbs.co.nz
Helping horses and dogs live healthier and happier lives, naturally.

APPLES are the number one fruit fed to horses as a treat. Like carrots, they are a good source of Potassium, vitamin C, and Complex Carbohydrates. Not only do they taste good but they contain Flavonoids, which are naturally occurring plant compounds that have antioxidant properties.

BREWER'S YEAST is a treasure trove of vitamins and minerals. It contains Calcium, Methionine, Chromium, PABA, B Complex, and Potassium to name a few. It also contains all the essential Amino Acids needed for complete Protein utilization. Brewer's Yeast is a valuable addition to any conditioning program.

CARROTS are the number one vegetable fed to horses as a treat. They are a rich source of vitamin A which is important for healthy skin and eyes. Carrots are a good source of Potassium, vitamin C, and complex carbohydrates.

FENUGREEK seed is an appetizing herb that can be used for conditioning the body and hooves. Its rich vitamin content makes it an excellent tonic.

CALENDULA aides in maintaining a healthy digestive system. It is useful for liver conditions and so could be helpful with things like arthritis and laminitis.

CHAMOMILE is used to relieve anxiety and restlessness, while aiding digestion. Chamomile is high in B vitamins and is a bit of a cure all.

GARLIC is an amazing herb. It has been used for everything from fighting infections, cough and inflammation to aiding the circulatory system to fly control. And garlic is loaded with vitamins and minerals.

GINSENG is an adaptogen. It can strengthen both physically and mentally the ability to manage stress. Ginseng also improves resistance to infection and is loaded with vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin A, Iron, and Calcium.

HAWTHORN adds PABA, which aides in the metabolism of protein and 19 important Bioflavonoids which can improve circulation, normalize blood pressure, and cause blood vessel to become stronger and more flexible. It also adds B vitamins, Iron, and potassium.

HOPS are a soothing and relaxing herb, which can help to relieve flatulence. It adds B vitamins.

LEMON BALM is relaxing and helpful for improving the digestive system and relieving flatulence. Lemon Balm has a high mineral content including Iron, Calcium, and Potassium.

NETTLE is loaded with minerals, especially Iron. Nettle is especially helpful for improving the condition of the hair coat.

PARSLEY is a dark, leafy green herb that is high in vitamins A and C, and in iron, magnesium and potassium. It has been used as a tonic and to aid digestion. It is a good "pick me up" food.

PEPPERMINT aids digestion, has a wonderful aroma and taste. It is soothing to the stomach.

ROSEHIPS can strengthen and condition hooves and connective tissues. They are also a good tonic for liver based ailments, are high in vitamin C, and can help build a barrier against infection.
Visit www.brookbyherbs.co.nz for a full range of natural organic herbal health blends for animals.

What's in Nature's Medicine Chest for Siff Canine Joints and Dog Agility Training?

By Jackie Rive at www.brookbyherbs.co.nz
Helping horses and dogs live healthier and happier lives, naturally.


Dogs that suffer from stiff joints can benefit from herbs in many ways that possibly you hadn’t thought of before. They can provide a means of enhancing your dog's quality of life by providing a safe form of flexibility and movement in the joints, critical to a dog's enjoyment of life.

Stiff joints can be as debilitating for animals as it is for humans and maintaining a healthy body before the onset of illness is an important part of preserving quality of life.

Herbal supplements that are completely natural and without the side effects often associated with synthetic drugs are fabulous for dog agility training. These herbs are also ideal for the older dog to help keep joints supple and help create good circulation.

Devil’s Claw is a particularly popular herb for the nutritional maintenance of the musculo-skeletal system and for dogs involved in agility training this is a wonderful supportive herb.

The herbal extract can help maintain joints, muscles and connective tissue in a strong and healthy condition, and can be hugely beneficial for bith the older dog and  the competitive dog as well.

We have had some fantastic comments from people who have tried our very own 'Nature's Free Mover,' which is used for maintaining joints and muscles in a healthy condition. Based in organic cider vinegar, the product contains Devil’s Claw, White Willow, Nettle, Meadowsweet, Hawthorn, Rosehips and Kelp.

Comments from Customers

“I'm absolutely thrilled and impressed with the results of 'Nature's Free Mover'. We have an 8 year old shepherd who was in a terrible state. The vet had put him on a course of drugs for his hips and basically it was completely knocking him out at night. The poor dog was so sedated he was wetting the bed and getting very distressed. We were all terribly upset watching him go down hill with no dignity left until my daughter suggested I try your herbal extracts. We have been amazed with the results. He is a completely different dog, up playing with the cat and running around like a young pup again. I wouldn't have believed it was possible. Well done and thank you. M.Wickham, Papatoetoe, New Zealand.

My vet recommended your product as one of 2 herbal supplements that would assist in easing my dog back into enjoyment of life! - Well, I used the Nature's Free Mover in his water bowl - and he is definitely more active and happy than what he was! Not yet back up to our 1 1/2 hour walks, but we may never be again, but he is certainly bouncing after wild rabbits and chasing balls etc. Problem is, so is my elderly (20yr) cat who drinks out of the same water bowl!! Rachael Hughes

Dear Jackie, Your 'Free Mover' was of great benefit to our old dog Buffy in her last years. We thank you for your promptness in supplying us when we placed our order and for the useful tips in your newsletters. We wish your business every success and would have no hesitation in recommending your company to others pet owners. Regards Allan & Joan Collins


a healthy muscular-skeletal system and enhance dog agility

Herb Dictionary

Here are just some of the essential herbs for the maintenance of healthy canine joints and dog agility training.

Devil's Claw (root)
(Harpagophytum Procumbens)

For the maintenance of the muscular-skeletal system
Nature’s own joint remedy
Shouldn’t be fed to pregnant bitches or where gastric ulcers are present
White Willow (bark)
(Salix alba)

The origin of aspirin
Good for digestive system
Meadow Sweet (herb)
(Filipendula ulmaria)

Origin of aspirin
Neutralises the acid in the system
Nettles (aerial parts)
(Urtica dioica)

Nature’s own cleansing tonic
Rich in iron and vitamin C
Increase circulation

Visit www.brookbyherbs.co.nz for a full range of natural organic herbal health blends for animals.