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Ask the Expert: Judith Shoemaker, DVM
Read Advice from a Renowned Veterinarian - Dr. Judith Shoemaker Below
DISCLAIMER: Ask The Expert is provided as a service for informational purposes only and is not intended as an endorsement of any product or as a prescription towards any condition. Ask The Expert is not intended to be a substitute for visits to your local veterinarian or other equine expert but rather the information contained within is the sole opinion of Ask The Expert. Answers given by Ask The Expert are not intended to treat or diagnose but rather as a general source of information about animal health care. |
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| One of my very good friends has a horse with Degenerative Hock Disease. Springfield is a 24yr old Standardbred/Morgan and is 16.2h. We do trail riding with him and all in all he keeps up well with the other horses on our rides. He recieves Adequan every month and that has helped tremendously. He was on a Glucosamine/chondroitin supplement but when his hocks became worse his owner and I discussed his supplement and I switched him to "Inflamaway". He does well on the "Inflamaway" but there are some days he still shows considerable stiffness in his hindend especially first thing in the morning. He also can be occasionally a hard keeper. I was doing some research on rosehips and found your supplement Ani-motion and I was wondering if you had done research on any horses with Degenerative Hocks and this supplement and what the results were? The thing that appeals the most is that it is all natural herbs and it has a lot more anti-inflammatory herbs rather than just the yucca in the inflammaway. Also I like that it has rosehips in it as well. Im just looking for some reccomendations on a supplement and info I can present to his owner if we feel its the right decision to try another supplement with him. He is overall a very happy healthy boy and we are looking forward to many more years of riding him.
Question submitted by Shayne Gray |
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Dear Shayne, This old fellow really wants to keep up with the herd and it's the best therapy for him! It's important to give him what he needs to help him to do this. The Adequan is a great help, as it gives him the building blocks to repair the wear and tear on his joints. It is even more effective when used according to the manufacturer's recommendation, giving it every 4 days for 7 shots initially. I would also recommend Arenus's product Steadfast to build better joint and ligament tissues, not just anti-inflammatories. For actual anti-inflammation, your choice of Ani-Motion is a great one as it has a balanced combination of herbs that reduce inflammation but also promote joint health (you are right about the rose hips, they are helpful in many ways!) The combination of herbs is less prone to causing stomach and intestinal problems as well, in this animal that sometimes has trouble keeping weight. You can rub his hocks with Sore No-More before and after rides and you will be surprised how much better something so simple can make him feel.
We use these products and clients are very pleased with the results. However, most of the time, significant hind end stiffness in a horse that wants to keep going as you describe, is not just hock problems, but a combination of joints and musculature responding to problems with shoeing, dentistry, perhaps chiropractic problems that result in postural shifts that overuse his hind legs in his resting weight bearing stance! If his hind frogs are bigger than his fronts, then this is exactly what is happening! He can't keep up with that more than normal wear and tear from this misuse of himself, so his joints lay down more calcium to help stabilize, this is the "arthritis" that he was diagnosed with.
Please consult with a holistic practitioner in your area, possibly my friend Dr. Gretchen Ham, who is very familiar with many modalities that can change this. I recommend her highly. She can also help to balance him in other ways to help with his weight changes and the other things he needs as an older active horse. (Gretchen Ham, DVM; New Hampshire, Massachusetts (603) 673-7419).
Even though he is older, he will always be healing, and if you can reduce the cause of his DJD (degenerative joint disease) you will have many more years with him being even better than he is now! |
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My 4 year old mare's immune system is really weak and compromised. She just seems to get one infection after another from a bad lung infection this past spring, to a skin infection, to another type of skin infection. Had her worked on by an energy worker and supplements with minimal results and extraordinary cost. I couldn't afford $250/week that she wanted. She told me the mare is allergic to oats and that's what's throwing her immune system off. Problem is they are pasture fed and using a mineral/vit supplement Grow n Win to get them the nutrients. Good luck finding one without oats in the pellet. I'm not sure I buy the oat allergy thing. She determined that by NRT (nutritional response testing). What can I put her on, or do to get her immune system running.
Question submitted by Heather Hair |
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Dear Heather,
Recurrent infections in a young horse usually means there is a chronic one that has not been resolved! Please have your mare's blood work taken and examined for abnormalities in her CBC and chemistry, including thyroid function and tick borne disease. If she has been on antibiotics she may also have a yeast overgrowth, which is easily cured with a 5 day Panacur treatment! This will also thoroughly boost her immune system as well as killing the parasites that she may also have more of because her immunity is so low! Do not vaccinate her heavily until she is more normal, as parts of her immune system are overly reactive and it's not appropriate to vaccinate a truly compromised animal. Immune system modifiers of many varieties from injectables given by your vet (EqStim, and others) to feed additives such as Garli+C or Equinacea may be indicated but the underlying cause should be accurately determined before treating. In very poor doers I have used extensive regimens with Caco Copper and Iron shots after using Panacur and even Ketoconazole for fungal infections! You must support the liver detoxification when doing this. Ozone therapy is very effective in resolving resistant infections, and most horses really thrive with this. Colloidal silver can help some as well. This must be more carefully diagnosed, there's no silver bullet, though support with homeopathics and energy work, accurately done helps to hasten her healing.
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Hello, My horse RV has chronic uveitis. He lost his left eye to it, which now has a cataract and his lens has shifted. He recently had implants put in both eyes to help control his flare ups, however before they could start working he got a bad flare up in his good eye. He has been on internal and external medications for over a month and we cannot seem to get rid of the uveitis. He is blind right now because the uveitis is blocking his retna in the good eye. The vet took him off all medication since he feels we are wasting our time.
Someone recommended getting him on holisitc medication and detoxing his body. Do you think by boosting his immune system, he will fight off the uveitis in his eye? I would really like to get his sight back, this poor horse has been through a lot. How about vitamin C or B12? Let me know your thoughts!
Thank you for your time.
Question submitted by Jessica Marino |
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Dear Jessica,
The eye with the luxated lens may still be painful, and it is an important part of his treatment to take care of it even if it is sightless. He can develop glaucoma in it as well. I would first consider seeing a veterinary ophthalmologist to find out where you stand with both eyes!! In my practice, we have had outstanding success with acupuncture and low dose aspirin to prevent flare ups. If there is an underlying infection such as Leptospirosis, that must be treated aggressively. Ozone can help here as well. Detoxing the liver is the key to this disease from the Chinese medical standpoint and there are some herbal preparations that do that well such as Livr-Up. Look for a balanced combination of herbs from a reputable manufacturer. Acute care is best accomplished with aggressive conventional care, but if that is not continuing to work you must balance the system with helpful antioxidants such as Citrus CQ which has the powerful modifier Quercetin in it. Too much stimulation of the immune system will worsen the condition. I would avoid vaccination indefinitely!! Adequan in the eye itself, as well as his own blood serum can help to stop collagenase from futher damageing his cornea. There is a wonderful community of folks online at the ERU Network with lots of information. Hope this helps. Don't hesitate to contact us if you have any questions.
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Looking for the name of the supplement for Assisting horse which has had Lyme disease. A friend of mine in Vermont uses your supplement. Which one do you recommend My vet says go for it.
Question submitted by Leah Sweeney |
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Dear Leah, The product you might be referring to is Astragalus 10 from Seven Forests. It is a gentle, balanced immune stimulant for long term use, providing gentle liver detox as well. There are lots of other supplements that can be helpful, but this is one I use frequently. Arenus may not be distributing it at this time, but I believe it is readily available online, if not OTC, then you can order it through your vet or with a prescription. Let me know if you have any other questions or if this is not the herb you are looking for.
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I was wondering if you have ever used accupuncture on non sweating horses,and if yes have you had good results?
Question submitted by Nora Farrell |
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Dear Nora,
Yes! Absolutely! Acupuncture works! There is extensive expertise in the acupuncture community for this! And there are other adjunctive therapies! Firstly, have your horse tested for normal thyroid function!! Also, I have never seen a non-sweater that did not have a chiropractic problem with its withers! (sympathetic nervous system problem) A pint of Guinness has helped more than one to sweat! Products like One AC and ABC's Amino 3 are useful in many cases. And those not responding to the above almost always respond to neural therapy with procaine injection of the withers. Getting the horse cool at night with a wetdown and fan and then letting it heat up in the morning can help as well.
Hope you can get some relief for this horse, as this weather is dangerous for one that doesn't sweat.
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Can I use an equine Veterinary Liniment Gel on my dog for his arthritis?
Question submitted by Vivien Ferneau |
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Dear Vivien,
It would actually be better for you to contact the manufacturer of that
particular product and ask them directly. If you have specific questions
regarding the SORE NO-MORE(R) liniment line, we would be happy to help you.
There are many people who do use the SORE NO-MORE(R) on their dogs as well
as the SORE NO-MORE(R) Massage Shampoo.
Please feel free to call us with any questions.
Respectfully,
Stacey Small
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I have a horse with a 6 month old leg injury. I bought the SNM which came with little to no instructions. My thought is to poultice over night each
night. Is this too much or too little. I am trying to reduce edema that is left on the leg. Also how soon after an injury that has an open wond canyou
use the poultice?
Question submitted by Dawn Beihoffer |
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Hello Dawn,
I see that Judith has answered you below. Please feel free to give me a call. I think it might be easier to dialogue with you on how you can use the SORE NO-MORE®. I would like to know more about the type of leg injury. Was it soft tissue or bone? This will give me different tips to share with you. Please feel free to call me at my direct line---610-326-7606 or you can call the 866--791-3344 number and they can patch you through to me.
Looking forward to speaking with you soon. I will be out of the office Friday through Monday at a trade show. You can reach me on my cell if those are the only times you can call. 610-310-1401. I am based in PA so we are ESTime.
Thank you
Stacey Small
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How can I help my friend? Her TWH has severe laminitis. She is trying to
keep from putting him down. I know cold hosing, banamine or bute. Good farrier. Only hay no grain. Anything else?
Question submitted by Marsha George |
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Dear Marsha,
Well, I could write a book here... The specificity with which the individual is treated with your suggestions, and the on going care are critical. The stage that the horse is in- acute, chronic, abscess, etc. changes the treatment as well. Less bute allows more rapid change- alternatives can include Ani-Motion, and Lamina Savr; soaking for abscesses is comforting, use lots of Epsom salts and Clean Trax if they are a problem, cleanliness and wrapping or boots are a must. Soft Ride boots seem to work the best. Most importantly the CAUSE of the laminitis MUST be resolved! The drug and homeopathic herb regimen would be dependent on that to be accurate. Acupuncture is very helpful, even medical leaches(!, in the acute stage especially,) can really make a huge difference. We use ozone extensively to grow new foot at warp speed and eliminate infection, which is the biggest danger, Good radiographs are really helpful to manage the feet accurately--THERE MUST BE NO LEVERAGE IN FRONT OF THE COFFIN BONE TIP!! You must consult with an attending vet or a holistic practitioner to get the best combination for this horse.
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Hello. I have a 26 year old mare that I sent to a friend a few years ago. She just returned her and the mare is skinny and doesn't have much interest in eating. Her teeth are fine. I wormed her with ivermectin last week, but then realized it didn't cover tapeworms... when is the soonest I can worm her again with something that covers tapeworms? I don't believe my friend wormed her the entire time she had her. Since worming her, however, her attitude has brightened and she has eaten a little more ... and now can't wait to get her carrots. thanks
Question submitted by Jan Westmark |
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Dear Jan, If nothing else is wrong, you can worm her with another class of wormer in a little as 3-4 weeks. Not having seen the mare, and without bloodwork, I would not want to tell you which one, as inappetance can be a sign of liver or kidney issues. She may have a problem that back to back worming or use of certain drugs may worsen. Please have your vet do a blood panel to check her out. If all is well, she certainly can have B12 shots, and gut products such as Fastrack, Probi, Tri-omega or Assure are extremely helpful in many ways.
According to Dr. Jay Altman who formulated the Assure products. He suggested the regular Assure product. He said in older horses like this that have not been de-wormed regularly the infestation can further block the digestion and those parasites can break out and cause ulcers. He suggested the regular Assure product. 3-5 weeks depending upon the condition. He suggests 1x day Assure Plus in the evening. Maintenance for older horses is Assure daily. If diarrhea is present go back to the Assure Plus to treat the hind gut for a week or two. NC coastline can be a tough environment for older horses with compromised teeth and guts from the sand ... this routine with the Assure will help to remove the sand. The psyllium they use in the blend helps to support colonocyte repair and turnover in the colon as well. That is documented in research according to Dr. Jay.
For more info on them ... http://www.arenus.com/c-4-assure.aspx |
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Hello Dr. Shoemaker, We raise AQHA on a very small scale. my 5 yr. old reg. grulla mare makes clicking noises in her joints. I've asked several vets about this and they all say "don't worry about it"! But she is 5 now, has not outgrown it, etc. Anything I can do? Has won high point halter classes two years in a row. She runs in and out so is not stalled, not worked hard, etc. Thank you -
Question submitted by Carol Brooks |
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Dear Carol,
The clicking that you hear can be joint cavitation, like knuckle cracking, and it indicates some minor instability, or lack of proper close packing of joints for weight bearing. There may be some tendons flicking in and out of their grooves, if she has some minor contracture- are her ankles upright ? All of these things can be caused by shoeing, dentistry problems, and chiropractic issues as well by being shoe ring FAT!!! If she is not very lean, almost ribby I would get weight off of her right away until the cause is determined.
If there is a minor mineral imbalance at the root of this, the ration must be evaluated and products such as the mineral blend Four Hoofs may be helpful.
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Hi Dr. Shoemaker,
I have a question about Ani-motion from Equilite? I am wondering how safe the ingredients are for stomach upset, ulcers? I have read that the ingredient White willow (since it has properties similar to NSAIDS), can cause stomach upset, so my question is- Is the amount of white willow in Anti Motion (2840mg /1oz) enough to cause stomach upset and should this product only be given when needed ( ie when pain is present) and not on a daily basis? Also what dosage range of white willow would be considered safe? Thank you
Question submitted by Cynthia Mercer |
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Hello! Ani-Motion has been specifically designed with chamomile to buffer the stomach. Its combination of ingredients is providing the maximum effect with the least untoward effects. I have not heard from any of the patients that I have dispensed it to of any adverse effects. I really like this product. It can be used on as as needed basis, but is safe for more chronic use as well. Always address the underlying problems with other modalities and consult with your holistic vet for specifics and other options.
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I have a mare that I have had for 2 years. Every summer she scratches the top hair off her tail, scratches her facial hair off until she bleeds, almost ripped her forlock off, and bites at her belly until she bleeds. Why is this and what can I do for her?
Question submitted by Cindy Carroll |
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Dear Cindy, This condition could have several causes. She may have a Culicoides sp. allergy and when she is bitten by the bugs she has a systemic reaction and scratches wherever she can. head, neck, tail, and tummy. She may also have an infestation with onchocerca larvae and they may be causing a similar reaction. She may have a severe herpetic eruption from sensitivity to herpes virus in her system--horsey "shingles," or she may have a histamine producing mast cell tumor that is set off by the warm weather. To differentiate between these and other possibilities, I would have to know how she has responded to different types of therapy. She should be examined by a knowledgeable veterinarian, who hopefully will offer more than only steroids to resolve this problem. She may need some to get her comfortable, but it is important to fix the cause not just the signs.
The treatment for the Culliocides allergy is to limit exposure with repellents and covers and to keep her in preferably with a strong fan during the biting hours for these guys-- 6-9 pm. Homeopathics can help desensitize her. Some also respond to allergy shots.
Onchocerca infestation is treated with an Ivermectin worming, and if the eruption occurred after her spring Ivermectin this is probably what is going on. She needs to be protected from reinfestation with Swat or something similar on any lesions that she has. Systemic treatment with anti-inflammatories may be necessary if her reactions are self destructive, until you can get her system cleaned up.
A systemic Herpes reaction may take more involved therapies than we can discuss here, but homeopathics are definitely something you may want to consider for this and the other diagnoses as well.
A mast cell tumor is the only skin condition in horses that I have seen respond to the antihistamines that are so frequently prescribed. However, horses with these somewhat unusual tumors are more often exhibiting hives regularly.
Antioxidants are very important, acting as anti-inflammatories in her system, and I would certainly recommend that you supplement her intake through the use of a product like Equilite's Citrus CQ. Soothing baths with cool or cold water using a non irritating product such as the non-SLS (Sodium Laurel Sulfate) Sore No More Massage Shampoo, if her skin is dry. If you think there is a secondary fungal skin condition, often a single bath with Head and Shoulders shampoo can be very helpful.
Please consult your veterinarian, as she is self mutilating and rubbing dangerously; she could injure herself, damaging an eye, getting a puncture or splinter, or developing a secondary infection. Make sure her environment is safe, as she will rub on anything. A proper diagnosis and effective treatment is quickly needed here; she sounds like she is pretty uncomfortable.
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My vet recommended an herbal product to help calm my new foxtrotter. He is a past competative trail winner who has not settled in for me. Do I have to feed relax blend every day or will it work just on the days I want to ride? Thanks
Question submitted by Sharon Osborn |
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Dear Sharon, As always, it is very important to determine whether there are some other stressors that may be having an impact on your horse, such as chiropractic, dentistry,saddle fit or shoeing problems. Even your posture when riding him can have an effect on his balance physically, physiologically and emotionally. If all these are taken care of, then the use of herbals can give him the opportunity to learn more relaxed, non-competitive behaviors. You must help him with proper behavior training as well. Nothing will stop him from being edgy if he thinks it is what is expected!
The herbal blends like Relax Blend are typically used on a daily basis. Each horse is different so the time it takes to see results will vary from horse to horse (ranging from 3 days to 30 days, averaging in the middle).
If you want something to use more situationally on the days you are riding, and not on a daily basis; I would recommend the MELLOW OUT FLOWER ESSENCE. You can read more about them from this link.. http://www.equilite.com/product-flower-essences.asp
Foxtrotters are so intelligent! He should easily learn what you want him to do! If he doesn't, consult your holistic vet for some additional insight.
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I have a rescue horse. Saddlebred 12-15 yrs old who cribs. Gets terrible marks from bug bites, hair wears off very easily from blankets, halters, etc.
Question submitted by Karla Nelson |
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Dear Karla, Your horse's cribbing is a form of self medication, endorphin release, to help him with his stressors. The ability to use this behavior is a genetic trait, but the degree that he needs to use it is what we have to help him with!! An overactive stressed immune system can cause his skin problems and many other stresses and pain. A careful evaluation of him from your holistic vet is in order and everything from his food (less sugar,) to his vaccination schedule (less,) to his worming, hoof balance, dentistry, can all have an impact on his balance and immune system. There are many excellent products to help with what "ails" him but we need to know what that is. Topicals are useful for wounds and soothing the lesions but we need to get to the cause, not just the effect!
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I own an eight year old Morgan gelding who has what several veterianrians think is Stringhalt. The only treatment they are able to offer is surgical - cutting a tendon; which they say only has about a 25% success rate. I am not encouraged by the odds and am looking for non-surgical treatments. Can you provide any advice?
Question submitted by Lynne Wiebke |
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Dear Lynne, Stringhalt movement is the result of spasticity in the muscles on the lateral side of the leg. If the tendon of the lateral digital extensor is cut, often the remaining muscles eventually become spastic and the problem returns. This indicates that the cause of the problem is more central than just the muscle! I would have your gelding checked by a chiropractic/ acupuncture knowledgeable practitioner as I have had several resolve or improve with treatment in my practice. Also homeopathy may help, specific evaluation is necessary though. Also make sure that there are no other correlations with vaccines, EPM, or tick borne disease as possibilities of cause for neuritis or nerve inflammation.
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I have a 3yr old Quater Horse. I got him as yearling. I took him on a trail ride last fall when he was 2yr old and I held the reins for another horse and when mine turned around the rein went up under his tail. He took
off bucking and I almost had him stoped when the off cinch broke on my saddle, I bailed at the point. We got my saddle fixed and I rode him home. After that happed tho when you get on him, he think something is going to get and start to take off and buck. He seems to be anious horse and spooks easy ever since. I need to be able to get on him to start his
training, I have been working from the begging of in the saddle off back in and off in his stall but you can tell the least little thing and his is going to take off. I work with him on the lung line and round pen and he is perfect but if you try to get in the saddle forget it. He is also starting to wind suck and crib when he is in his stall waiting for dinner,he seems to get very anxious and he paws allot when his is eating. He has 24 hrs. turn out with plenty of hay to
eat and he is with 3 other horses -a 2yr.old, 12 yr old and a 18 yr. old. I you have something that would help so that I can get back in the saddle I would be so greatfull. He was doing so well before this incident happened.
Question submitted by Patricia Carr |
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Dear Patricia, Your young horse had a frightening experience when he was still very impressionable. There are many things that can help him with this problem including making sure that there are no physical problems that are adding to his anxiety. I would have him checked by a veterinarian who is knowledgeable in chiropractic and acupuncture techniques that can address the mind/ body connection. He may have physical problems that trigger these reactions as well emotional ones, and there are specific treatment techniques that can help, including cranial/sacral and myofascial releaseor somato/ emotional release therrapies.
I also suggest flower essences, which are homeopathy for emotional imbalances; Angel of Mercy is for erasing bad memories from traumatic situations. Ego Builder helps animals face their fears. Both of these products are from Equilite/Arenus. See the link http://www.equilite.com/product-flower-essences.asp for more info abut them.
The cribbing and pawing indicate the very real possibility that he has ulcers, and is "self medicating " for his discomfort. You can try giving him papaya puree; I use Natural Stomach Soother from Health Mate. Assure from Arenus and other herbal products may also be useful. He may need to be treated with Gastrogard if the ulcers are extensive. Your veterinarian can help you with this decision, and if he is really not responding with lots of turn out and constant feeding he should be evaluated sooner rather than later.
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I have a 11 year old Thoughbred ex racehorse. I got her after she had foundered and suffered from abscessed feet. She has thin soles and easily becomes tender footed. I have shoes on her front feet she has weak hooves
that constantly crack. We live in dry sandy area and I need something to make her tender feet comfortable. She loves to run and buck and carry on.
Question submitted by Cindy Sanders |
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Dear Cindy, It's great that your mare likes to tear about; she must be feeling good. The most important thing you can do to have her feet strong and to improve after her founder is get accurate radiographs for your farrier to work from and keep her breakover no farther forward than the tip of her coffin bone. Her solar angle must be normalized and she must have support evenly distributed around the center of rotation of her coffin joint. The quality of her feet will improve if you do this as the cracking is caused by innappropriate leverage, not weakness of the hooves! A balanced foot will not hurt and will grow properly even if the founder and abcessing were severe. Boots can be substituted for shoes, or Perfect Hoof Wraps. But the trim must be correct for these to work. "The Sauce" from Equilite/Arenus can be used in wraps or with sugar to reduce pain and harden the hoof. Hardeners like Tuff Stuff and Venice turpentine and certain other preparations can be used as well, but not wrapped over. Bare feet and pea gravel footing can really help her feet remodel if she's not needing to walk on hard surfaces to work. Homeopathic Hoof Inflammation from Newton Homeopathics can really help with discomfort during periods of change. Her feet can become a non issue if managed correctly.
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I have a 13 year old mare, when we bought her she was very under weight and malnourished. she is not mare-ish but very nervous and has a short attention span. We currently have her on B-1 and it is not working. Do you have any tips?
Question submitted by Andrea Cattaneo |
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Dear Andrea,
Your mare still may be dealing with nutritional imbalances. Have your veterinarian make sure her thyroid is functioning properly and that she is on a good premium supplement. Many times Calcium levels are depleted in these animals bones and they may be severely stressed by trying to maintain their blood levels. Red-Cal is a superior product to supplement with and it has proven over again that it can reduce these signs of behavioral stress in animals I have used it on. Flower essences can be helpful as well. I use the Botanical Animal Flower Essences. And always make sure that she is evaluated for any physical problems that may be causing her stress, especially her feet teeth and chiropractic balance!!
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I have a 30 yr old Appy mare that gets nose bleeds in her left nostril. It's not all the time. I would like to know what could cause this and if it's treatable?
Question submitted by Debbie Trapp |
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Dear Debbie, There are many possible diagnoses for the sign of a one sided nosebleed. These may include a sinus infection, a broken or senile tooth root, a tumor, abscess, ethmoid hematoma, skull fracture, allergies, ear or guttural pouch infection, foreign body, lung problems, just about anything!!! PLEASE have your horse seen by a veterinarian who can radiograph and/or endoscope you horse to determine where that blood is coming from and treat her appropriately. Certainly giving a low potency dose of homeopathic Arnica will not hurt her but you must get an accurate diagnosis.
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I own a 5 year old mare that was injured while in training when she was about 2 1/2. The injury was a puncture wound to her rear fetlock joint and was not treated properly by the trainer or his assistant (she was out of state in training & I was not immediately notified). As a result of the lack of a prompt dx and proper treatment, infection set in and my mare was hospitalized for two weeks and on a very strong IV antibiotic. The infection cleared up but there are pressure wrap scars on the front and back of her leg, and significant swelling on the inside of the fetlock joint. The swelling almost comes to a point. I feel no heat when I touch it. I am afraid there is a build up of scar tissue inside the leg and around the joint that has occurred over time. The mare was accommodating when being ridden but recently has been showing some signs of irritability over being asked to jog or lope. This irritability started showing up when being asked to lope, but now occurs when being asked to jog also. I have been told that
this could also be cycle related but, as the mare's irritability has been getting worse over the course of three weeks, this almost does not make sense to me. Any suggestions? Will magnets help?
Question submitted by Lisa Abbott |
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Dear Lisa, Your problem may or may not be related to the injury! A lot of things could be going on...her heat cycle may be part of the problem, and it actually could be affected by the scar on her Spleen meridian on the inside of her fetlock!! I would certainly treat the scar using Blue Emu ointment several times daily for a while, treat all scars with this. It will move energy and circulation through the scar and may reduce it. Magnetic therapy certainly can improve circulation in the area as well. Many things can affect your mare's attitude, from chiropractic problems to hormone imbalance, to teeth and feet, all are connected and can manifest in many seemingly unrelated ways. Please find a good holistic practitioner and get her checked out in every way. Subtle things can make major changes.
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I am a medical professional and utilize professional homeopathics. What is considered a safe dose for cats and dogs and what preparations should be avoided for both.
Question submitted by Vickie Mink |
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Dear Vickie, I usually dose homeopathics using adult doses for adult animals of reasonable size, and chidren's doses for young or very small animals. Very low potencies of extrememly toxic substances could actually have a non-homeopathic effect in small animals, but generally effects are not dose dependent but frequency of administration dependent. Animals often respond to twice daily doses of the potencies that are appropriately given to humans three times daily and generally are much more predictably and rapidly responsive in general! I have many cases that respond to single doses of even lower potency remedies. LM's and secondary dilutions are often a safe way to go if you are unsure of responses or follow-up. If you use combination preparations such as the Heel products there is actually a dosing guide in the Practitioners Handbook Veterinary Guide.
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Dr. Shoemaker, I've recently used a herbal wormer on my horse which is
designed to expel the worms rather than kill them off. A large number have
been found in her fecal sample - stronglyes - so I am assuming it is
working. However, she had a mild colic episode about 10 days after
completing the worming round (it's a 10 day protocol). I am going to re-do
the round but would like to know if there is anything I can do to prevent
another mild colic if there is a lot of die off. It could be that the colic
was not precipitated by the worming but severe weather changes. However, I
want to do what I can.
Question submitted by Keria Rossin |
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Dear Keria,
I need some clarification, was a high strongyle count reported by a regular fecal exam? If so, this does not indicate that she is clearing the worms, but that the large number of adult worms in her gut are producing large numbers of eggs that are contaminating your pastures and endangering her and others with a new heavy infestation of larvae that will do their tissue migratory damage before they will ever be affected by a vermifuge program. Flushing the worms out does not stop the damage done by the prior migrating larval stages, which may be what caused your horse to colic. Pasture management and targeted worming instead of mass dosing can, without using as much wormer or causing as much resistance in the worms.
80% of a herd worm problem in a herd is caused by about 20% of the horses, and fecals can determine which these are. These animals with high fecal egg counts should be wormed with sufficient doses of an effective larvicidal wormer, separated from the pastures briefly until they stop shedding, and should be checked frequently. Others in the herd should also be checked regularly, but if their counts remain low they may be maintained with herbal programs and only wormed with conventional wormers once or twice a year, (but more if needed to keep them low.) The goal is to keep pastures managed to minimize worm burdens there first, and to allow the low level infested horses to maintain immunity and to harbor populations of worms that will be less resistant to drugs due to lower exposure.
Regrettably, a horse with high fecal egg counts must be more heavily treated for the good of all. They may have higher counts due to less resistance and therefore are at greater risk for more internal damage as well. Probably the only time a colic might be caused by worms IN the gut being cleared is with a heavy tape, round worm, or bot infestation causing obstruction. Colic from strongyle infestation is from potentially permanent damage to the blood supply to the gut. Don't let that happen to your horse in the name of being more "natural." It would be "natural" for these horses to die!
There are several ways to deal with colic, but that is after the damage is done! I would recommend that you use a 5 day Panacur larvicidal dosing on your mare after consulting with your vet, and watch her very carefully. Herbal vermifuges can be just as dangerous as conventional drugs in certain individuals, they are chemicals also! I would consult with your vet or with pasture management experts in your area for further suggestions and use herbals to enhance your herds immunity and augment, not replace, an accurate, targeted judiciously applied worming program.
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Q: |
I have a 10 yr warmbld gelding about 1400 lbs who was recently diagnosed with agressive arthritis in his hocks. The vet discussed pain management as the next step. Joint injection Depo-Medrol-40mg 5ml as well as well as HA-2ml. He injected the worst side 6 mo ago and now recommends routine maintenance. The same meds. I have the horse on a vit supplement with joint support. Platinum product. The horse is border line sound with light work. I can feel the stiffness but not visably off.
The other ? is last spring he developed headshaker symptoms that subsided with winter. They are so slight on coming with the longer days.
What ideas do you have? I love the idea of complementry medicine and budget minded ideas first!
Question submitted by Chyrise Broyer |
| A: |
Believe it or not your two problems may be associated! The aggressive arthritic change may be associated with immune mediated problems that are perhaps also resulting in the mild trigeminal neuralgia. The location of your horse's arthritis has to do with the way he is standing and using himself, and his possibly excessive weight. His posture can be dramatically changed to relieve his hocks using shoeing, dentistry, chiropractic, and acupuncture. The reduction in postural stress is also important in the treatment of the headshaking, as any stress can exaggerate immune reactions. Continuing to inject his hocks with steroids without correcting the postural cause will provide pain control but allow continued deterioration even with the inclusion of the HA. The supplement your are using is an excellent one, but the more than normal wear and tear plus the inflammatory response in the system is more than the healing mechanism can overcome. Equilite's product Equinacea can help to modify the immune reaction for the headshaking and also may help systemically enough to aid the joints as well. A specific program for the headshaking using homeopathics can be arranged for through your local holistic veterinarian or with a program called CAPSTAR. Many other factors including feed, turnout, vaccines, etc. can have an impact on these conditions. If these problems are addressed accurately, rather remarkable recovery is possible. As far as budget, the costs must be considered in terms of the deterioration of the horse, as well as the cost of the treatment. Proper care may be pricey but well worth it for your horse's comfort and the extended useful life provided. |
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Q: |
I have a 12 yo Quarter Horse mare with arthritis (and also
insulin resistant). Keeping her off the spring grass complicates the
management of arthritis. I understand Devil's Claw is recommended. I can
buy the herb less expensively from a trusted source (Mountain Rose Herbs)
than a prepared herbal supplement such as Wendals. Problem is, I don't know
how much herb to give for the desired result. Can you help?
Question submitted by Sheryl Lloyd |
| A: |
The arthritis and the immune stimulation that may be making her insulin resistant could be due to other causes. Make sure to have her checked for Lyme disease and that her thyroid function is normal. The Devil's Claw is an excellent anti-inflammatory and pain reducer. However, I would recommend a balanced combination of ingredients such as Equilite's Ani-Motion, or the Wendall's herbs. They are often more effective than the single ingredient. Keeping her weight down, and making sure that she MOVES, even though she can't be turned out is very important; in addition to proper shoeing for balance and ease of movement. |
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Q: |
I have a mini horse over 21 years old who has founder history and cushings. Any suggestions? Also, can you recommend anything for pain after farrier visits? I feed farnam brand mini horse feed pellets and hay. Can you suggest supplements?
Question submitted by Terry Starnes |
| A: |
Of course, your veterinarian can help with specific advice on medications for your horse's condition depending on the severity of signs and the cause. It's always important to know if he is hypothyroid and needs medication for it, and if his signs will be improved by the prescription drug Pergolide. For his discomfort, Equilite's AniMotion can be very helpful, also talk to your vet about Isoxsuprine for several days before and after trimming. And consider radiographs to help your farrier be absolutely accurate in getting his breakover back to the area below the tip of his coffin bone. Make sure his teeth are well done and consider feeding him low glycemic index hay cubes. If his insulin levels are high there are certain supplements that can help lower them but he must have accurate blood testing to determine if they are appropriate. The most important thing is to get his weight normalized and make his feet comfortable so that he can EXERCISE, which will do the most to normalize his cortisol and insulin levels. |
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Q: |
My horse was diagnosed with lyme disease in Jan.2010.He was
really sick,did'nt respond to the doxy for 9-10 days, but is doing really
well now. How can I support his immune system,will he build immunity from
having the disease? I'm afraid it could happen again.I can try,but I can't
keep ticks away completely.
Question submitted by Jeanne Reed |
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Lyme disease is nasty stuff but it is best dealt with as you have done, with aggressive treatment and then immune support and modulation. The best quality feeds with low sugar content, appropriate worming-iincluding a 5 day Panacur to control any residual candida overgrowth from the doxycycline treatment and to stimulate the immune system, supplementation of probiotics and prebiotics to support for the gut flora. Depending on the animal, specific immune supplements and Chinese herbals, and homeopathics may be helpful; I use ABC's Lyme Supplement for many, and Equilite's Citrus CQ. In our practice we also treat with Ozone therapy with great results. Tick control is very helpful, best accomplished by mechanical means! Wash horses thoroughly with Head and Shoulders Shampoo and rinse with white vinegar 1/2 cup /gallon of water. Then Show sheen the legs from the elbows and stifles down, the mane and tail and chin thoroughly. Keep feathers trimmed and tails banged off short so there are no "ladders" for the ticks to climb up! Check for ticks daily. Keep horses away from woods edges if possible. There's not much grass there anyway! |
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Q: |
I have a 12 year old paint (all white now) that has developed a few small bumps under his tail, around his anus. The largest is the size of a pea. I understand this is probably melanoma. Is there something I can do to help this situation? Thank you for your help.
Question submitted by Dominique Bracht |
| A: |
Dear Dominique.
Your now all white paint probably had grey spots, with dark skin, and a darker mane and tail, right? So he has the greying gene, which means he doesn't continue to
incorporate melanin pigment into his hair as he ages. Melanoma in grey horses is most commonly found in the area you describe, as well as on the sheath and prepuce, the lips, spreading to the submandibular and parotid lymph nodes, and sometimes areas of previous injury or inflammation. Though we can't be totally sure his bumps are melanomas, we may assume it's probable if they are hard, slow growing, non-painful, bumps in these areas on a grey horse. Minimizing inflammation through good feeds and hay, minimal vaccination and exposure to environmental toxins, and the use of antioxidants such as Equilite's Citrus C/Q can be very helpful. Also, not allowing your horse to be overweight will help slow the growth of these tumors dramatically. There are also several specific herbal preparations for use in controlling melanoma that can significantly reduce the size of these tumors; though which one is right for your horse must be determined by a more thorough examination or description of the animal, the history and the tumor. Surgical removal is not especially effective as the removal of a larger tumor may trigger the growth of others elsewhere. In a healthy horse, the body will control these tumors sufficiently that they don't cause problems even if they continue to increase in size slowly. Often they are not growiing, but just continuing to fill with melanin produced by the cells.
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Q: |
Are there any holistic remedies appropriate for a 13 month old male GSD recently diagosed with congenital renal failure?
Question submitted by Vicki Wooters |
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A bit more diagnostic information could be useful here, but in general, good nutritional management, reducing stress on the kidneys and helping the liver and gut to do more of the work in clearing toxins can help the smaller amount of kidney tissue that the dog has last lots longer. There are homeopathics and herbal preparations as well as special diets and additives that can help accomplish this. Careful control over anything that could cause illness or antibody protein production such as ticks and fleas, dental disease, vaccination, worming are critical to his well-being and longevity. |
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Q: |
We have a QH-trained for barrel racing. At 1year old we had some pea-sized fatty tumors surgically removed from her dorsal line 1- 3inches behind the withers. The vet elected to not stitch the area but let it heal open. She is now 7years and that area still produces scabbing with noticible sensitivity. Recently another vet prescribed Freezex to numb the area to prevent her bucking. Is there any natural or medical remedy that could be used to promote complete healing of this area after so many years? We raised and trained her but her bucking is DANGEROUS!
Question submitted by Sarah Hall |
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There are many possible reasons for this mare's bucking that should be thoroughly investigated by a qualified practitioner, including chiropractic problems, saddle fit issues, shoeing and dentistry problems, ovarian and uterine problems, etc.. However, if the scar is the problem, a "toxic" scar that blocks Qi flow in acupuncture meridians, or causes a painful restriction in the fascia or skin, then there are alternative treatments that may help.
Acupuncture of the area and treatment to move the Qi through the area can increase blood supply and stop pain. Myofascial release of restrictions, by a qualified practitioner, can help resolve the problem. Topically, Vitamin E oil can be used to soften the scar and reduce inflammation. One of my favorite treatments is an emu oil product (Blue Emu ointment --NOT SPRAY or "SPORT" if it is to be used under the saddle area, menthol may blister), found at the drug store, rubbed in 3 times daily to stop the discomfort and improve blood supply to heal the scar. Homeopathic Thuja and Silicea are remedies appropriate for scarring and can be obtained without a prescription. In addition to evaluation of the above mentioned possible problems, we treat many scars with one or a combination of these, and frequently see, even in very old scars, more normal skin and sometimes hair regrowth, as well as resolution of the avoidance behavior.
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