Anyone who has seen their horse struggle to breathe, even in a minor way, understands the importance of managing the situation before it gets worse. Whether triggered by seasonal allergens or exposure to common irritants such as dust and molds from straw and hay, airborne bacterial toxins or ammonia â even minor decreases in lung function can have a major impact.
Controlling respiratory symptoms and immunity in your horse
Whether triggered by seasonal allergens or exposure to common irritants such as dust and molds from straw and hay, airborne bacterial toxins or ammonia â even minor decreases in your equine's lung function can have a major impact.
Inflammatory airway disease (IAD) and recurrent airway obstruction, RAO are two issues to watch for. IAD is characterized by a cough while at rest and not present when the horse is exercising.
It is triggered by stall confinement and exposure to common irritants. RAO is a chronic allergic and/or hypersensitivity in which airflow is obstructed by a combination of inflammation, mucus and bronchospasm.
Nutritional approaches can control symptoms and even influence the immune response:
- Spirulina Platensis is a blue-green algae that stabilizes the mast cells that release histamine. It has potent antioxidant properties and is a powerful regulator in the immune system. The antioxidant action of Spirulina is boosted by MSM, Jiaogulan and Vitamin C.
- MSM is a derivative of DMSO, whose lung support properties include support for normal regulation of inflammation.
- Flaxseed meal is a rich source of the Omega-3 Essential Fatty Acid, Linolenic Acid which promotes balanced inflammatory pathways.
- Jiaogulan is a Chinese herb that supports healthy histamine levels, healthy airways and a healthy immune response.
- Vitamin C supplementation is suggested by research showing that vitamin C levels drop substantially in the composition of stressed lung fluid.
- Careful attention to trace mineral balances and adequate Magnesium to support open airways and antioxidant defenses.
Uckele Health & Nutrition, maker of CocoSoya®, formulates and manufactures leading edge products that support lung and respiratory health.
Lung EQ. With Jiaogulan to support healthy immune function and open airways. Spirulina supports balanced antibody production and stabilization of histamine releasing cells. Provides antioxidant support for tissues challenged by irritants and allergens.
Phyto-Quench. Grasses and grains lose their natural antioxidant capacity with storage. Replace these immunity preserving plant-based antioxidants with bioflavonoid rich ingredients for vascular and tissue integrity.
Bio-Quench may help horses with seasonal allergies with a potent blend of antioxidants, bioflavonoids, herbs and nutrients. Supports the body's immune system and provides protection from damaging free radicals.
About Dr. Kellon
Dr. Eleanor Kellon, staff veterinary specialist for Uckele Health & Nutrition, is an established authority in the field of equine nutrition for over 30 years, and a founding member and leader of the Equine Cushings and Insulin Resistance (ECIR) group, whose mission is to improve the welfare of horses with metabolic disorders via integration of research and real-life clinical experience. Prevention of laminitis is the ultimate goal. www.ecirhorse.org
Uckele Health & Nutrition is an innovation-driven health company committed to being on the leading edge of nutritional science and technology for over 50 years. Uckele takes pride in formulating and manufacturing a full spectrum of quality nutritional supplements incorporating the latest nutritional advances for equine athletes and companion animals to help achieve optimal health. www.uckele.com