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Discussion on Probiotics with regards to foals
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New Member:
Ellyconf
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Posted on Thursday, Aug 26, 2004 - 3:43 pm:
I am researching the use of probiotics in foals with regard to general health, weight gain and growth rates. However the probiotics I have looked at only mention dosage rates for foals for the first 15 days to establish gutflora or as a short course following a bout of scouring or antibiotics. I am looking into using them on a regular basis as a more preventive supplement and was wondering if you need a loading dose; if 2/3 times per week is enough or would they have to be fed daily. Any thought or knowledge on the matter would be greatly appreciated.
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Member:
Deggert
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Posted on Thursday, Aug 26, 2004 - 4:26 pm:
Eleanor
I use a preparation daily on all horses, here is the website for Forco https://www.forco.com/main/prod-forcosup.asp. It explains what it does and it actually is a digestive aid with no live cultures and the site explains why etc. I met Oliver Hinkle, who is the distributor and an equine nutritionist, about 10 years ago. I use it on foals, adults and geriatrics. check it out.
PS one of my vets said they use this at UC Davis
in the surgical facility where she taught.
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Member:
Hwood
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Posted on Thursday, Aug 26, 2004 - 6:05 pm:
Eleanor,
Write to Dr. Colleen Wilson with your question . . . CGWilsonPhD@aol.com or visit www.adeptusnutrition.com
This is an interesting subject, and I have tried both pro-biotics and pre-biotics to help some of the more needy horses in my care. I look forward to reading of your findings. Please post what you learn.
Thank you.
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Moderator:
DrO
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Posted on Friday, Aug 27, 2004 - 12:18 pm:
Hello Eleanor,
To quote what seems to be the best review of the use of probiotics in horses (including foals) at this time:
A Review of Probiotics: Are They Really “Functional Foods”?
J. Scott Weese, DVM, DVSc, Diplomate ACVIM
2001 AAEP
It is a logical to assume that certain
probiotics will be effective in the treatment or prevention of certain conditions. Which probiotics and which conditions have yet to be determined. In the interim, practitioners should consider the general properties of probiotics and probiotic therapy when choosing and prescribing probiotic preparations.
I have not seen any information since that time that changes these conclusions. The article associated with this forum explains the factors you should consider when choosing a probiotic and makes dosage recommendations. We do have a fairly new scientific report that does speak to treating foals.
DrO
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Member:
Ellyconf
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Posted on Saturday, Aug 28, 2004 - 9:33 am:
Hi,
have tried to contact Dr Colleen Wilson, but the e-mail address is not recognised - any ideas!
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Member:
Hwood
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Posted on Monday, Aug 30, 2004 - 1:54 am:
Hi, Eleanor,
Go ahead and call the phone number on the bottom of the web-site page . . . last time I called to order, I talked with Dr. Wilson, and I have met her and talked with her at the big Equine Affaire in West Springfield, Massachusetts two years ago. Someone there will be able to give you her e-mail address or another way in which to contact her.
Holly
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