Is water softener block salt okay for horses. I bought some and it contains brine, and they told me it was okay. – CM, Illinois Dear CM, This was an interesting question that, quite truthfully, I had never thought about…
This is a space where all of us horse addicts can get together to discuss some serious topics related to horse health. I will be posting two to three answers a week to the questions you have about your horse’s health related issues. Keep in mind these are only my opinions and they are for informational purposes only. Please consult your veterinarian before treating your horse or pony for any ailment.In addition to answering questions from you I will be sharing some of the many articles that I have written. Also, I will try to keep you up to date on the latest developments in the world of equine health and nutrition.
We also welcome any health questions you may have about your canine companion!
- Dr. Lydia Gray
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Blog Archives
Do fly control supplements really work?
I board my horse at a facility with approximately 30 other horses. There is adequate pasture space for all. And fairly good manure management. My question is, do fly repellent supplements work? I know that for larval killer, all horses…
Choosing a Flea Preventative
What is the most effective flea med available? BG, Texas Dear BG, Unfortunately, there’s not really “one” most effective flea product. Because different products contain different active ingredients, they all work a little differently. It’s up to you and your…
Ponies and Pasture: The “Perfect Storm”
I have an eleven year old Shetland pony that is morbidly obese. He rates at an eight on the Henneke scale and poorly tolerates even light exercise. He has been examined by my vet and has no physical condition to…
The In’s and Out’s of Popped Splints
My young two year old warmblood has very small splints on both front legs. There is one on each leg up front. I am wondering if those splints will grow over time when he is being jumped and worked on…
Posted in Lameness
Impaction Colic in horses: how to keep things flowing
“I have a 10 year old Reg Tennessee Walker Mare. She has had impaction twice in the last 6 months. I was able to clear the impaction and she went back to being herself. However, friends have suggested feeding her Metamucil to keep things flowing…”
Tagged with: Ask the Vet, Dewormer, Deworming, Digestion Supplements
Posted in Ask the Vet, Misc. Topics
Posted in Ask the Vet, Misc. Topics
Barefoot or shod: what’s right for YOUR horse?
“Hello Dr. Gray. I am writing today in regards to shoeing. There seems to be a trend towards riding barefoot. A huge article just came out in Dressage Today magazine about Shannon Peters taking a few of her top performers barefoot. I am intrigued by this concept because I have been taught that horses always need shoes for added stability. The thought of riding without shoes is equal to the sin of jumping without a helmet. Should my training level dressage gelding go barefoot?…”
Heartworm Testing
“Why does my dog need a heartworm test every year? Can’t I just buy the preventive from you without a prescription? – ER, Vermont”
Skin Allergies: Sweet Itch
My horse is 15 years old and gets sweet itch every spring. Someone told me to add Flax seed meal to her diet. I’ve started that this winter. I’ve noticed a growth in her mane and tail but was wondering…
Deworming Q & A
Question: “I’m looking for the 3-way rotation chart. Can you report this on your website?”
Tagged with: Deworming, Guide to Supplements and Horse Care
Posted in Ask the Vet, Seasonal Horse Care
Posted in Ask the Vet, Seasonal Horse Care
