KAM Animal Services Press Kit

Equine Health through Nutrition

PRESS KIT

KAM Animal Services Has Lots to Offer WHAT KAM ANIMAL SERVICES OFFERS: KAM offers a nutrient specific product line to restore heath within the horse. The products are of a therapeutic nature and are formulated to achieve performance and to address certain equine diseases. All of the products are organic, GMO free certified and standardized for optimal potency.

KAM is not about only selling products but about ensuring you understand when to use these products, why to use them and how to use them. This is what you can expect when you purchase products from KAM Animal Services: - Nutritious organic products - Consulting and guidance to clients about understanding equine nutrition - Their team of researchers, naturopaths, nutritionists, veterinarians, agriculturists and consultants will help implement a nutrition/supplement program that is right for your horse anywhere in the United States.

KAM’S EQUINE LEARNING CENTER: KAM Animal Services is dedicated to educating horse enthusiasts and does so with a number of FREE services, including its Tips of the Week and educational Webinars.

TIPS OF THE WEEK: Every week KAM Animal Services comes out with a new tip on their web site: www.kamanimalservices.com. These tips are written by experts in the various fields. You can find over 40 tips that focus on such topics as electrolytes, hay, tripping, NSAIDs, fungus, first aid, teeth, detoxing and so much more. Take the time to read their tips or if you have a tip to offer contact gabrielesutton@aol.com. KAM will also send tips to media who want to post a weekly tip on their web site or in their publication, contact Diana at Press Link, dderosa1@optonline.net, 516-848-4867.

KAM’S EQUINE LEARNING CIRCLE FREE WEBINARS: As an expansion of their “Tips of the Week,” KAM offers FREE webinars. On average they feature one webinar a month. If you want to learn more about what can be done to help your horse with ulcers, EMS/IR, lameness, hives, colic, allergies, back pain, hoof problems, arthritis, feeds & supplements, conditioning, saddle fitting, shoeing, dehydration, teeth floating and so on, then these webinars will help you understand how to maintain your horse’s health. It’s easy to sign up. Just go to www.kamanimalservices.com.

New Products!

KAM DTX-Formula has a spectrum of ingredients that reach into the systemic cellular structures of the equine body. It gently promotes detoxification of the excretion organs and tissues of toxins that may accumulate over time. By doing so it safely promotes the removal of toxins caused from environmental exposure without creating additional stress on the horse.

KAM FRE-Formula Plus: As summer approaches and the nicer weather allows us more time to ride, our horse’s joints need our attention. KAM Animal Services new product, KAM FRE-Formula Plus is the perfect product for the horse with chronic soundness problems and leg, joint and tendon issues. It is an all-in-one

combination of herbs, enzymes, amino acids and other nutrients to support the joint capsules, ligaments and tendons.

www.kamanimalservices.com

KAM ANIMAL SERVICES FAST FACTS KAM CONTACT: KAM Animal Services, Gabriele Sutton, 555 Vt. Route 78E, Swanton, VT 05488, Phone: 519-463-9640 EST – Email: gabrielesutton@aol.com, www.kamanimalservices.com PRESS CONTACT: Diana De Rosa/Press Link, dderosa1@optonline.net, 516-848-4867 MISSION: To ensure that the KAM program brings your horse back to optimum, sustained health as quickly as possible.

CUSTOMER SERVICE: Customer service is everything at KAM Animal Services. Each client is assigned a regional KAM Animal Services consultant, who will even come to see your horse in person if necessary!

Their hand-picked and knowledgeable staff shares one simple mission - to ensure that the KAM program brings your horse back to optimum, sustained health as quickly as possible.

A GOOD DIET FOR YOUR HORSE: consists of clean, pure water and good quality grass hay. Processed, enriched and feeds high in sugar should be eliminated from your horse’s diet. ―You are what you eat‖ pertains to horses too! KAM products contain no chemicals, fillers, additives or sugar.

New Product! KAM DTX-Formula has a spectrum of ingredients that reach into the systemic cellular structures of the equine body. It gently promotes detoxification of the excretion organs and tissues of toxins that may accumulate over time. By doing so it safely promotes the removal of toxins caused from environmental exposure without creating additional stress on the horse.

KAM FRE-Formula Plus: As summer approaches and the nicer weather allows us more time to ride, our horse’s joints need our attention. KAM Animal Services new product, KAM FRE-Formula Plus is the perfect product for the horse with chronic soundness problems and leg, joint and tendon issues. It is an allin-one combination of herbs, enzymes, amino acids and other nutrients to support the joint capsules, ligaments and tendons.

New Product!

WHAT KAM OFFERS: KAM offers a nutrient specific product line to restore heath within the horse. The products are of a therapeutic nature and are formulated to achieve performance and to address certain equine diseases. All products are organic, GMO free certified and standardized for optimal potency.

Nutritious organic products Consulting and guidance to clients about understanding equine nutrition Their team of researchers, naturopaths, nutritionists, veterinarians, agriculturists and consultants help implement a nutrition/supplemental program that is right for your horse anywhere in the United States.

SEMINARS: KAM founder and Equine Naturopath Gabriele Sutton gives horse health workshops all over the United States. Email for the latest seminar information (www.kamanimalservices.com).

HELPFUL INFORMATION TO MAINTAIN YOUR HORSE’S HEALTH When large grain meals are fed to horses, it is often impossible for the stomach and small intestines to sufficiently digest and absorb the massive onslaught of starch. Hence, some starch moves into the hindgut without being sufficiently digested.

Fatty Acids are an excellent source of energy for horses, but are higher in calories and therefore weight prone horses should avoid too many added fats.

Protein and Amino Acids are essential for growth (hair, muscle, skin, hooves, mare’s milk, etc.).

Amino Acids rebuild tissue damage.

Since the GI tract is so important for protecting the body, around 70% of the body’s entire immune system is located in the Gastro Intestinal tract.

KAM products are pharmaceutical grade so they are an alternative to drug therapy. The programs work synergistically to treat the horse as a whole instead of just treating the symptoms.

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www.kamanimalservices.com

ABOUT KAM ANIMAL SERVICES KAM Animal Services Equine Health Through Nutrient Specific Nutrition Have you had a horse diagnosed with insulin resistance (IR), ulcers, allergies, lameness, back pain, colic, hoof problems, arthritis, osteochondrosis (OCD) and so on? Do you struggle to determine the best nutrition for your horse(s) and become completely overwhelmed by the vast array of feeds and supplements available? Are you frustrated by the difficulty of sifting through all the propaganda and marketing hype to find factual and helpful information?

If any of the above refers to you than you should seriously consider KAM supplements including their newest product, KAM DTX-Formula.‖ Here’s one fact that every horse owner should know: almost every equine ailment can be improved and supported by good natural nutritional management. Our mission at KAM Animal Services is to help you implement a specific, well-balanced diet for your horse using high quality natural feeds. Our products are carefully formulated and monitored to maintain the highest standards of quality, purity, and effectiveness. By feeding your horse these products you may improve your horse’s health and may prevent an ailment from occurring.

KAM Animal Services team of experts (including staff Veterinarian Dr. John Hanover) will help you formulate a specific diet and ration for your horse that will provide optimum nutrition and allow you the flexibility to adjust your horse’s diet effectively when necessary, maintaining that optimum nutrition through times of pasture change, changes in activity or workload, and stresses such as seasonal change, travel, showing, breeding, illness or disease states, vaccination, and worming.

We have helped thousands of horse owners across the United States, and we are experienced in all breeds, including Warmbloods, Thoroughbreds, Andalusians, Morgans, Quarter Horses, Arabians, Percherons, ponies, Friesians, Paints, Belgians, and Clydesdales.

The experienced KAM Animal Services team are all horse owners and professionals who love to work with horses of all disciplines including: Hunter, Jumper, Dressage, Show Jumping, Eventing, Endurance, Reining, Racing, Equitation, Trail and Pleasure horses.

KAM’s products perform as promised, their customer support is second to none.

www.kamanimalservices.com

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STORY IDEAS KAM Animal Services – The Story Behind a Company Focused on All Natural Supplements: Gabriele Sutton is the founder of KAM and her years of experience with bringing horses to optimum health guided her to create a line of supplements that are based on bringing the horse to optimum health. This story will be about how and why KAM was created with a focus on the fact that if you feed your horse properly he will be able to perform at his best.

Equine Nutrition with Gabriele Sutton: Equine Naturopath Gabriele Sutton knows her nutrition and an article can be done about any of the following topics: 

What any horse owner should know to ensure his/her horse has the best chance at optimal health and condition.

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The causes and ways to prevent and help cure such ailments as Ulcers, Insulin Resistance (IR), Laminitis and more.

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A conversation about feeds and what feed is right for your horse (commercial feeds versus all natural feeds).

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A discussion about hays, feeds containing molasses, soy, oats, barley, beet pulp, fats and other feeds.

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The causes of lameness.

All Those Wonderful KAM Graphics: Ian Culley is the hand behind the many graphics you see at the KAM Animal Services site. Have a conversation with Ian on how he comes up with his many designs.

Weekly/Monthly Nutritional Tips: Would you like to run a weekly horse tip on your web site or in your publication. KAM has the tips for you.

Equine Naturopath Gabriele Sutton: Gabriele’s background is filled with firsthand experience on how to keep your horse healthy and fit. Find out where all that knowledge came from.

A Focus on a Specific Topic: Do you want Gabriele or one of her staff to talk about Insulin Resistance, the Quality of your Feed, Supplements or any other topic of interest to the horse owner. Check out the many tips at www.kamanimalservices.com to choose the topic you’d like the KAM team to expand upon.

www.kamanimalservices.com

GABRIELE SUTTON Founder of KAM Animal Services 1986 Gabriele Sutton graduated from the College of Physicians and Surgeons in Wuppertal-Germany as a Registered Nurse Practitioner in June.

1989 She gained extensive primary care experience by practicing with Orthopedic Surgeons and Emergency Care Physicians in German hospitals as well as private Care Clinics until immigrating to Canada in November.

1994 She graduated from the L’auberg Des Herbes in July, completing studies in Naturopathic Medicine, Botanical Medicine, Nutrition as well as Homeopathy.

1994-1995 Gabriele served as Clinical Director at Natures Clinic in Exeter-Ontario, offering full spectrum Complementary Therapies to patients.

1996 She graduated from the International Jensen’s Institute in TX, USA in advanced studies in Nutrition, Botanical and Naturopathic Therapies in June.

1996-2003 Gabriele Sutton practiced out of the University of Western Ontario, Research Park as Clinical Director at the Institute of Integrated Medicine, working alongside the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario offering CME accreditation to Family Physicians throughout North America in Complementary Medicine, as well as integrating Complementary Medicine into the Canadian Hospital arena until the summer of 2003.

1996-2003 Gabriele also stayed in active practice for DG-Medical Corp. in London Ontario with the primary focus of Complementary Medicine in the field of Gastroenterology and Oncology.

2003 Gabriele left Human Complementary Medicine in August because of a life changing desire to focus full time work and research in the field of Equine Naturopathic-Nutritional solutions.

2003 She incorporated KAM Animal Services in the summer, by retaining a team of Equine Veterinarians, Pathologists, Equine Nutrition Experts and Agriculturists to design nutrition programs, along with a line of nutraceutical supplementation that would address Equine Health through Nutrition.

2010 KAM adds weekly tips to its web site on topics of interest to horse enthusiasts.

2011 KAM starts a series of webinars once or twice a month as an expanded version of its weekly tips.

Also a new product for gently detoxifying your horse is introduced called KAM DTX-Formula.

Ongoing continuing CME education in the field of Equine Nutrition, Equine Naturopathy and Homotoxocology. Gabriele has about two clinics every month throughout the United States.

www.kamanimalservices.com

KAM’S PHILOSOPHY Feed your horse well and you will help prevent any diseases!

A HEALTHY HORSE IS THE KEY KAM believes that if you can keep your horse at optimum health you can avoid many of the potential diseases that may occur. Their motto is that good natural nutritional management is the key to ongoing health.

A BALANCED DIET IS THE KEY TO HEALTH By formulating a specific well balanced diet, using high quality natural products, such as Oats, Barley, Flax and Beet Pulp, you will have greater input into the nutritional status and thus health of your horse. Formulating a specific diet and ration for your horse also allows you to alter the diet more effectively at times of pasture change or deviations in activity, biological status, travel, stress or health.

THE TRUTH ABOUT COMPLETE FEEDS Many complete feeds on the market today have been treated with high temperatures, and/or pounded into powder during processing. These practices destroy vital nutrients and as such the feeds need to be fortified with vitamins and minerals, often the additives are from unnatural sources.

You may wonder what substances are used in these feeds and how well they are digested by your horse. Many ingredient labels state well over 100% of the daily requirement of some nutrients. You should wonder why is this needed since excess absorption of some nutrients will upset the balance of others and as such lead to ill health.

Most complete feeds contain chemicals, stabilizers and preservatives and because of that the question is just how healthy and digestible are the additives.

Also are feeds thickly coated

with molasses because there are substances in the feed that a horse will not eat unless well disguised? If so, what are these substances? Are they natural equine nutrients and should these feed contents be consumed by our horses? These are all questions you should ask when deciding on an equine feeding and nutrition program.

www.kamanimalservices.com

KAM SEMINARS KAM founder and Equine Naturopath Gabriele Sutton gives horse health workshops all over the United States. Email for the latest seminar information (www.kamanimalservices.com).

“I have learned by speaking with so many people that horse people want to be educated (without

the sales pitch) and want to learn,” said Gabriele.

KAM Seminars are for you…IF YOU: -Want to know about horse feeds and what feed is right for your horse (commercial feeds versus all natural feeds) -Want to learn more about different hays, feeds containing molasses, soy, oats, barley, beet pulp, fats and other feeds.

-Are worried about your horse having ulcers, insulin resistance (IR), lameness, or just want to get your horse to optimal health and condition.

Private Sessions/Hosting a Seminar Gabriele will also schedule horse nutritional evaluations following the workshop or by appointment while at any of these seminars.

If you are interested in hosting a seminar by Gabriele feel free to contact KAM Animal Services. Gabriele enjoys working with groups, organizations and barns.

KAM holds regular seminars throughout the United States and can consistently be found in the following locations. Plan now to attend a seminar near you:  Chicago and surrounding suburbs  Ocala and Wellington, Florida  Aiken, South Carolina  Wisconsin  Texas  Michigan  Colorado  California (Los Angeles and San Diego)  Maryland Veterinary Conference

Scheduling of Seminars: Typically scheduling of seminars happens one to two months out.

www.kamanimalservices.com

KAM ANIMAL SERVICES OFFERS KNOWLEDGE Want to Know More About Equine Health Care and Equine Feeding and Nutrition?

Interested in equine health care and want to know more about how powerful the right equine nutrition/supplementation can be? Call KAM at 1-519-463-9640 or email gabrielesutton@aol.com to learn more about:

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Equine feeding and nutrition: WHAT, WHEN AND HOW MUCH to feed your horse.

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Complete Feeds, Sweet Feed-Molasses, Corn- Oats- Barley, Plant Protein By-Products, Beet Pulp, all types of Hay and Pasture, Water and Environmental Toxicity.

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Worming and Vaccination - Benefits and Risks.

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Equine Health Care and Performance - Begins and Ends with Digestive Health

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Understanding, treatment and prevention of Dysbiosis, Colic, Ulcers and Mal-absorption in your horse with Nutrition.

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Identification of Metabolic Disorder and the prevention of Founder and Cushing’s Disease in your horse with Natural Botanical Therapy.

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Exploration of Equine Supplements- WHEN, HOW MUCH OF WHAT AND WHY to feed.

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Understanding of Natural Equine Health Care, the benefits and limitations of supplemental use for your horse, also about dosage and contraindications when using supplements along with allopathic drugs and in the show ring.

www.kamanimalservices.com

KAM PRODUCTS Many sport horses suffer from stress and poor digestion. A number of KAM products balance out the horse’s system so that the horse is better equipped to fight off the possibility of colic or diseases. KAM products contain no chemicals, fillers, additives or sugar.

The objective for KAM Animals Services Products is to provide products that will provide the horse with all the nutrients they need. Some products are specifically targeted at the diseases horses suffer. Some eliminate gut permeability, regulate and balance metabolic function, reduce inflammation and/or cleanse the body of environmental/metal toxicity.

KAM has its own in-house team that can guide you to choose the product that will best help improve your horse’s health whether for just maintaining a healthy horse or dealing with an ailment already present.

KAM’s team has done numerous field studies targeting a variety of diseases and has developed natural products designed to bring your horse back to optimum health.

AES – Formula 1 Supplement (American Equine Solutions Formula 1): A daily pack of the supplements needed to give your horse balanced effective nutritional support. It includes vitamins, antioxidants, nutrients and enzymes, gut support, joint support, minerals, trace minerals, electrolytes and essential fatty acids.

ANS – Advanced Nutritional Solutions with Fat: This fat pellet consists of 70% organic hemp seed and 30% organic stabilized flax, rice bran, olive oil and coconut oil.

New Product! KAM DTX-Formula - has a spectrum of ingredients that reach into the systemic cellular structures of the equine body. It gently promotes detoxification of the excretion organs and tissues of toxins that may accumulate over time. By doing so it safely promotes the removal of toxins caused from environmental exposure without creating additional stress on the horse.

KAM’s Electrolyte: Sodium, chloride, potassium, calcium and magnesium are the primary electrolytes (ions) needed by a working horse. When ions are balanced, they promote water consumption and retention, which can eliminate dehydration concerns and other health problems. The unique property and benefit about KAM Daily Electrolyte is that all of these ingredients are available to the horse immediately.

KAM Daily Electrolyte is the only product on the market which ensures a balanced blood chemistry level.

Unlike other products on the market KAM Daily Electrolyte does not burn or cause gut discomfort, nor does it contain chloride. KAM Daily Electrolytes are generally needed if tying-up, muscle cramping, anhydrous, synchronous diaphragmatic flutter or diarrhea occur.

FRE Choice Supplement (Powder or Liquid): FRE Choice is the product for the horse with chronic soundness problems and leg, joint and tendon issues. It is an all-in-one combination of herbs, enzymes, amino acids and other nutrients to support the joint capsules, ligaments and tendons. Some of the benefits in using FRE are that it increases movement and mobility, reduces pain and inflammation, increases circulation and lubricates joint cavities. It helps manage pain caused by acute injury and/or degenerative muscle, soft tissue and joint conditions. Key here is that it delivers effective oral pain and anti-inflammatory relief WITHOUT the use of NSAID’s (Anti-inflammatory Drugs) or Steroids. It may also help arthritic horses.

FRE Choice Liquid is an oral tonic that contains both homeopathic dilutions and herbal extracts to aid in managing pain and inflammation caused by acute injury and/or degenerative muscle, soft tissue and joint conditions.

www.kamanimalservices.com

FRE Liquid is an equine joint supplement that delivers effective oral pain and anti-inflammatory relief without the use of NSAID's (Anti-inflammatory Drugs) or Steroids. FRE Choice Liquid may also support ongoing pain management for horses with chronic soundness problems, leg- joint- tendon and ligament injuries, horse arthritis and sore joints and chronic arthritic changes.

KAM FRE-Formula Plus: As summer approaches and the nicer weather allows us more time to ride, our horse’s joints need our attention. KAM Animal Services new product, KAM FRE-Formula Plus is the perfect product for the horse with chronic soundness problems and leg, joint and tendon issues. It is an allin-one combination of herbs, enzymes, amino acids and other nutrients to support the joint capsules, ligaments and tendons.

New Product!

K.L.P.P.: K.L.P.P. is what we call the Digestive Tract First-Aid Kit because it maximizes digestive efficiency. This product retards the growth of 22 pathogenic organisms which can lead to horse colic or horse diseases. It provides the benefits obtained from live cultures without the problems and concerns of using pure cultures. It is especially beneficial to use in stressful situations like travel, when competing, changes of feed, water and/or the environment and other times when your horse might get stressed.

Enzyme Plus: Enzymes are essential for maintaining proper function of the body and play a role in virtually all body activities, each enzyme having a specific function in the body. So by feeding your horse Enzyme Plus you help prevent horse colic, improve digestion, reduce stress and help in many other ways.

Equine X-Formula: Equine X-Formula is for founder prone horses, horses with laminitis and equine Cushing’s Disease.

MIF Formula: MIF Formula promotes healthy estrogen metabolism and estrogenic activity in mares. It has been especially beneficial for mares with estrogen related health issues.

TF Formula (Transfer Factor): Transfer Factors are found in both humans and animals and work by helping the immune system. The process of the body is to first recognize what should or should not be in the body and then destroy or otherwise neutralize anything harmful. The process involves the production of antibodies, which are the immune-defense cells that ―fight-off‖ antigens (invading disease agents like viruses and bacteria) when the body recognizes their presence. Disease happens at those times when the body does not recognize viral or bacterial antigens quickly enough. When it finally does the body produces antibodies that target and overwhelm the invaders and the animal gets well again. Transfer Factors help to prevent that slow response by serving as ―messengers.‖ TFs can ―educate‖ or modulate an animal’s immune system, teaching it to recognize harmful ―foreign substances‖ and communicating the knowledge that they are present. They do not cure – they help prevent.

UF (Ulcer Formula): Stress and poor digestion often disturb the optimal acid/alkaline balance of the horse’s digestive system. This can lead to gastric ulcers. UF formula can both help prevent ulcers or help a horse who has them by helping to balance the acid/alkaline level of the equine gut/stomach.

www.kamanimalservices.com

COOKIES WITH A CLUE KAM Animal Services was instrumental in helping Healthy Horse Boutique owner by Marian Nilsen create ―Cookies with a Clue.‖ For more information about these cookies go to www.cookieswithaclue.com. ―Cookies with a Clue‖ are nutrient specific treats created to keep your horse healthy. These cookies offer a simple, safe and effective way to support your horse and his nutritional needs by combining the essential ingredients into an easy to feed cookie. They are meant to be an alternative method to supplementing horses or offering horses a treat (reward) you can feel good about. ―Cookies with a Clue‖ are all natural, GMO free and do not contain any fillers, additives, chemicals or sugars and so they are safe to feed to any horse. Feed these treats whenever and wherever, either one kind of cookie or a variety.

Unlike most equine health products, ―Cookies with a Clue‖ are completely legal in the show ring. are five in all and each of the five different types of cookies has its own use.

There

Belly Bites: Give nutritional support to the gut. They promote healthy digestion and nutrient absorption along with reducing the risk of stomach problems such as ulcers, gas and colic.

Booster Bites: Provide a boost of vitamins and minerals in a way that your horse will actually enjoy eating, without the extra unwanted energy.

Chubbies: Offer a safe, delectable tasting way to encourage endocrine balance and healthy insulin production. Since these cookies have no sugars they are ideal for overweight horses that still deserve to be pampered, even those with EMS and IR. Owchees: Present achy horses with an appetizing alternative to nasty-tasting drugs or medicine. They relieve horses of pain or discomfort from inflammation without harmful side effects or stress on the digestive tract.

Stress Busters: Grant tranquility to nervous and anxious horses. The special nutrients and homeopathic remedies in these cookies calm the nerves of scared horses and give them a boost of confidence.

Survivor Kit: A combination of all of the above cookies, so you can be equipped for any situation.

www.kamanimalservices.com

UNDERSTANDING HORSE DISEASES AND HOW NUTRITION CAN HELP DYSBIOSIS (Leaky Gut Syndrome): Dysbiosis is a perforated hind gut, an excessively permeable intestine or a condition of erosion and ulceration of the gastrointestinal tract. The bacteria of the intestine is often referred to as ―friendly‖ and helps to maintain homeostasis and many ―health promoting‖ activities including detoxification, vitamin production, and protection against pathogens. If this relationship is out of balance, the mere overgrowth of so-called ―friendly‖ bacteria, dys-symbiosis or dysbiosis results and inevitably leads to holes in the gut. The most critical point to consider with dysbiosis is the extreme damage it causes the horse by permitting bacteria, pathogens, and toxins to escape the intestinal lining and enter the bloodstream. All nutrient absorption is impaired leaving the horse malnourished, in an extreme state of imbalance, and vulnerable to disease.

Once dysbiosis occurs in the horse, this essentially opens the door to many diseases such as founder, laminitis, inflammatory diseases (arthritis, myositis) and metabolic disorders (insulin resistance).

Dysbiosis also contributes to endotoxemia, inflammatory bowel disease, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (Heaves), liver disease, and colic. Most often these conditions manifest in the horse as colic, which is often recurrent and unrelated to management. Chronic weight loss and chronic diarrhea may also result from leaky gut syndrome. Further it has a devastating effect on the liver as it is recruited to filter all the ―contaminated‖ blood from the intestine. (For a more detailed explanation of the dangers of dysbiosis go to this link: http://www.kamanimalservices.com/Equine-Health/ahvma-01.php) IR (Insulin Resistance) or EMS (Equine Metabolic Syndrome): Many of our horses have elevated blood insulin levels without concurrently raised or lowered blood glucose levels. Insulin Resistance (IR) is also called Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS) or Syndrome X. It is characterized by decreased ability to transport glucose into cells or the failure of tissues to respond appropriately to insulin. Equine Cushing’s syndrome has some of the same characteristics as IR. While some of the specific symptoms are different, the general seriousness of the metabolic diseases is very similar. EMS horses respond better to a feeding routine that mimics natural grazing behavior; eating several smaller concentrated meals through the day helps keep their glucose and insulin levels on an even keel.

LAMINITIS/FOUNDER: Founder can happen after feeding your horse too much fresh green grass. Fresh grass is high in carbohydrates (sugars) which can cause stomach upset in grazing horses.

Grasses under stress often produce high levels of a type of sugar called fructans. Horses have trouble digesting these sugars and the sugars end up in the large intestines, where bacteria multiply and break them down. The overgrowth of fructan-digesting bacteria upsets the normal balance of the digestive tract and produces toxins that lead to laminitis.

It is FALSE to believe that grazing horses are safe in pasture that is not fertilized or maintained. Long grass tends to accumulate fructans. Overweight and insulin-resistant horses are the most susceptible to founder or laminitis. These horses can also develop a mechanical form of laminitis from excess pressure on their laminar attachments.

Hay can contain up to 30% fructan, depending on the conditions when the hay was cut. When horse feeding, steam all your hay for founder prone horses, to reduce carbohydrate/fructan levels. To avoid laminitis the best time to turn your founder prone horse out to graze is late at night or very early in the morning, when the grass is not in the flowering stage. Use a grazing muzzle for the rest of the day, to allow your horse as much turn-out time as possible.

ULCERS: An unhealthy ulcerated gut sets the stage for equine disease because the ―gut‖ or digestive tract serves as the door to the equine’s body. If ever that door gets ―stuck open‖ or dysbiotic, the gastrointestinal tract transforms into a highway for disease.

www.kamanimalservices.com

MEDIA RECOGNITION This is an excerpt from a blog written by Dawn Diovera on a website called www.horseandman.com.

Dawn Diovera is an Executive Producer at Itchy Fingers Films, Inc. in California.

Equine Wizard Nutritionist, Gabriele Sutton For those of you smart and lucky horse people who only have one horse, worming day is probably a very manageable day. But, for us insane multiple horse owners, worming day leaves us shuttering like Lurch. Thankfully, I’ve found a solution that really helps me, so I thought I’d pass it onward.

But first, thinking about worming made me think about Gabriele Sutton. This woman is a force in the Equine Nutrition world! She received her initial education in Human Health as a nurse practitioner with advanced training in Naturopathic Medicine, Botanical Medicine, Nutrition as well as Homeopathy. Then, people started asking her to help them with their horses. Well, a new career opened up and she became just as proficient in Equine Nutrition, Equine Naturopathy and Homotoxocology. She’s got chops. Her business is called, KAM Animal Services.

Now, I know we all hear about herbs and herbal remedies. I actually really believe that you are what you eat… same with equines. And, we all know that most of our horses are living artificially on what we provide for them to eat, not necessarily what they are craving or what they intrinsically need. We try our best to figure out what they could use nutritionally… ―Hmmm, her coat looks dull‖ or ―Gee, his feet seem to be chipping more this year‖ and ―He has no energy ―… and we purchase a nice supplement.

Obviously, we are all kinda shooting from the hip, if you know what I mean. For me, I just surmise what they probably need and go from there. And, that has been mostly just fine. But, I’m here to tell you, when you need to bring in the big guns, Gabriele is a wizard. This brainiac is so helpful and so knowledgeable, you want her to live out back planting a garden, mixing potions and fixing all your equine buddies’ ailments. I was in awe and gaga when we had our initial conversation. Well, it wasn’t really a conversation… she spoke, I listened trying to keep up, but it all made sense and I was sold!

All of her supplements and feeds she created herself. All the ingredients are listed and she can tell you exactly what each one does, how it supports another and why it is in there. She will also cite clinical trials and tell you more about metabolic disorders than you ever wanted to know — but need to know. Oh yes, and SHE answers the phone. Or, if Gabriele is out of town (which she is quite often as she visits farms and horses all the time), she will call back or have her assistant call. Wonderful.

Personally, Gabriele came to my farm and helped me tremendously with a Cushings horse (she recommended an entire feeding regimen and it worked) as well as a supplement program for all of my horses. Her wealth of knowledge just bends you over backwards. So, when you need to call in the cavalry to help your horse, put this info in your back pocket. She is a genius. Go to the website and you’ll see what I mean. These aren’t your ordinary herbal concoctions for horses. This is extraordinary stuff.

Anyway, back to the reason I’m thinking of Gabriele – she re-educated me on my worming schedule. Without getting political, I’d like to say that there is generally no reason to worm your healthy horses every day or even every 3 months. However, this is not going to be a favorable piece of information for the companies that make wormer… Really, Gabriele taught me that unless the horse is showing signs of worms (and you can always do a fecal test every three months if you’d like), it could be detrimental over time to worm a horse every day or every three months for its entire life.

GABRIELE’S SUGGESTED WORMING SCHEDULE: SPRING: 5 day Power Pack (test to make sure you need it) SUMMER: Strongid FALL: Ivermectin or Equimax if you are in an area populated with Equine Tape worms. That’s it. Simple.

www.kamanimalservices.com

KAM TESTIMONIALS Pixie Keating, Aiken South Carolina - Harley “My FEI APHA combined driving pony met Gabriele and started on KAM products in January 2010.

Everything about Harley's health has improved.

She's stronger and fitter. Her black coat glows. No one believes she is 16 years old. The last extension down the centerline in dressage is as strong as the first and she finishes marathons with a bounce in her step. She loves all the „Cookies with a Clue,‟ which seem to give her a boost on the last day of the competition when she needs to be fast, obedient and supple. AND Gabriele is always available to offer support and advice.”

Evi Strasser, Canadian Olympic Rider, Quebec, Canada – Quantum Tyme & Action Tyme “Dear Gabriel, You know that I am a total fan of all the products of KAM Animal Services. My horses Quantum Tyme and Action Tyme, as you know, will not travel anywhere in the world without KLPP, Free powder, UF formula, and Enzymes Plus. No one can get over how well they arrive from all the long trips we are doing. Thanks to all the products I have very healthy horses. For the Cookies my boys are already ordering big boxes of them, by special delivery. They think it is one of the best things ever. So, thank you again for having all these good things for my Champions.”

Jenni and Steve McAllister, (Trainers) Los Angeles, California - Sammy “We at Martin McAllister training have had great results with KAM Animal Services. In just a few months we have seen dramatic changes, for the good, in our horses. Soundness issues, weight issues, and some performance issues have been resolved. I have seen results in as little as five days, and in every horse there has been positive change.

The KAM staff has been easy to work with, very educational, and respectful of our relationship with other feed and supplement companies. The horses love these cookies like no other, and it is a great way to keep them supplemented while on the go.

Also keeps the owners happy, as they love to feed treats!”

Kathleen and Ron Parker, San Diego, CA “Gabriele with KAM accurately evaluates a horse‟s health at a glance, gives you a specific protocol to return your horse to optimal health and is always available to address issues as they arise. If you have an animal with health issues I would try this first. For the price of a few vet visits your problem is solved by nutrition rather than drugs (treat the cause rather than the symptoms).”

www.kamanimalservices.com

Stacy Owens, Beverly Hills, California – Galaxy (pictured) & Cash “I was at the end of my rope eight months ago with my 10year-old Thoroughbred, Galaxy. He was tying up, and was dealing with severe ulcers. For the past three years, my vet, trainer, and others tried so hard to figure out what was wrong and treat him. Eight months ago, we found you, and KAM Animal Services. THANK GOD! Based on your expertise I was able to tell you the symptoms, and we were able to diagnose him with EPSM. From there you explained to me what EPSM was, assigned a treatment plan, and sent me the supplements and recipe for his new diet. Within 48 hours we saw results from your products. Now, eight months later, I have a horse that I can ride without the death sentence attached. He is happy, healthy, and excelling in every way.

For the first time in three years, Galaxy is making progress.

“Since learning of KAM and seeing the amazing results in Galaxy, I of course jumped on the bandwagon.

I attended a seminar, and learned that my l9-year-old Quarter Horse, Cash, was also in need of some dietary help. Cash was categorized as a „Chubbie.‟ Within the last three months of getting him on the KAM program Cash has lost 1OO lbs, and now feels like a five-year-old again. Cash is on a mixture of the KAM products, but his favorite are the „Chubbies”‟Cookies! He gets 5 a day, and begs for more. Cash can be picky, but not when it comes to his KAM cookies. If he could eat the whole bucket, he would!

“KAM Animal Services, and of course you, Gabriele, have been lifesavers. Had it not been for your treatment plan, and products, Galaxy would still be in pain, and Cash would just be another obese Quarter Horse, on the edge of founder.

“To say thank you seems so minimal. As a passionate rider and owner, it means the world to know that someone like you exists. Your knowledge and products leave me speechless. I am forever grateful, and naturally refer every horse owner I know to you and your products.”

Shirely Mitchell, Barrington Hill, IL “All three of my horses are different breeds, have different jobs, and their ages are 13 to 32. My horses look great and feel great since I started on KAM supplements. Nothing else has worked so well and I have tried a lot of other products! I also use KAM's “Cookies with a Clue” as a treat and sometimes as a convenient nutrient source. My horses love the Cookies. They are healthy, and they provide the specific nutrients each horse needs. KAM is a company with organic products that work and great ideas to help take the mystery out of feeding our horses! KAM saved my older horse. At age 28, he had great spirit, but due to age and Cushings Disease, he was getting very thin and not likely to get through the Illinois winter. Then KAM Animal Services arrived. We changed his feed and hay, and put him on an appropriate balance of KAM supplements. That was 4 years ago! My horse has bloomed and has a wonderful quality of life running around with his buddy in the pasture.”

www.kamanimalservices.com

Lu Ann Groves DVM, San Marcos, TX “I have been working with KAM Animal Services for several years and am very impressed with the products and the professionalism that Gabriele brings to my clinic. She has given some very good lectures at the clinic, and her products work very well. I am extremely pleased with the results from KLPP and FRE. I use the UF and enzymes to treat ulcers as well.

Shelby French, Sweet Briar College, Virginia “We have been fortunate over the past several years to work with Gabriele Sutton of KAM Animal Services to develop a nutritional program for our large and varied herd of horses. The benefits of the KAM supplements in conjunction with a feeding program that emphasizes natural whole foods are obvious in the improvement of the overall condition and well-being of our horses. KAM Animal Services has worked diligently with us to help us provide our horses with a feeding program that makes sense for each individual horse but can be implemented while feeding a herd of 80 horses.”

Linda Thomas, Crystal Lake, Illinois “KAM Animal Services has provided sound nutrition advice, immediate response to concerns, and a great supplementation program. I cannot say enough good things about KLPP. It has brought our horses through colic without a vet call. All barns should have this product on hand. Our horses love the new Chubbies. They see me bring the bucket out and they „attack‟ me. They follow me around pushing each other out of the way to get their healthy treat!”

Monica L. Smith, CCRC, Seattle, WA “Being owners to Bernese Mountain Dogs, you are very aware of their health problems. We have been monthly (and sometimes weekly) visitors to our vet‟s office, mostly for GI issues. After putting both of the dogs on KAM supplements, we have reduced our vet visits to about once every 2-3 months. We frequently hear from people how our 8 year old male is so „young looking.‟ I firmly believe that with Gabriele‟s guidance, we have given our dogs many more healthy years to live. I have recommended KAM to many people. I can‟t rave enough about their products!

“Our female Bernese is a therapy dog who visits patients and their families in hospitals and nursing homes. She gets “very anxious” about doing a good job while she is on a visit. We recently purchased the stress busters cookies, and have been very impressed with the decrease in her anxiety. I now use the cookies as her treat while we are visiting.”

Dorreene Gilmore, Golden Hills Farm, Paso Robles, CA “My husband and I breed and compete dressage horses in California. We have been using KAM Animal Service‟s and supplements for my horses for the last 3 years. They have never looked or performed better. Those with bloating or weight issues are now sleek and healthy. Horses with low weight issues now look terrific. The only problems we have encountered were physical injuries or stomach problems related to sand that is prevalent in our area.”

www.kamanimalservices.com

Justine Cave, Bolder City, Nevada - TC “KAM Animal Services is simply the best service you can provide for your horse. I was amazed at the transformation after 2 weeks on the nutrition program. Gabriele has always been there for me and mostly my horse, to guide me through challenges after lameness and even changes in the feed at our barn. She is an educator that knows that if just one more person understands the basics to horse nutrition and the benefits, then many horses benefit from that knowledge. I know I can always trust the products and the science behind them, because I‟ve seen the proof not only in my horse but in several others. There‟s nothing better than having your own personal Equine Nutritionist on call…KAM has always been there when I needed them!

“I‟m riding my horse TC now and he feels great. I just need to get him in condition again, but he‟s happy and I feel it in his total being. The nutrition is showing now that he‟s not in pain anymore. Also, that AES is like magic stuff (lol). He‟s not tucked up anymore and his muscle tone has really changed and that‟s with just trail walking. Amazing what a new set of feet can do for a horse, but more than that, I believe the nutrition helped speed that up and he healed quite fast. My trainer was amazed. Those old tendon injuries I can hardly see anymore. The vet said it was scar tissue…ha…I can prove him wrong now.”

Patti Becker, Grand Prix Dressage Rider/Trainer, Fireside Farm, Salem IL “I have been using KAM products for five years. During that time, every horse that I have put on the products has blossomed. They look better; they feel better; and they perform better. Gabriele and her team are extremely easy to work with. She is always willing and available to answer any questions I may have or offer suggestions to boost my horse‟s performance. If you haven't tried these products, you don't know what you're missing. The bigger problem is, neither does your horse!”

Carmen E. Robertson, Wisconsin - Drake “When 2 full treatments of Ulcergard only provided relief during but not bringing lasting relief from stomach upset for my horse my friend Eileen Molzberger suggested I give Gabriele at KAM Animal Services a call. Eileen was very happy to report that her Saddlebred gelding was feeling so much better on the UF formula and KLPP when Ulcergard didn't bring sustaining relief. Since that first call Gabriele has been a tremendous help in putting together a nutritional program to address different needs in different horses. Thanks to Gabriele I'm now confident I provide my horse with all he needs to ensure he is in the best possible place physically to train and show. Gabriele quickly responds to any questions via email or the phone. She is very knowledgeable and is able to provide explanations that are easily understood. I like the 'Belly Bites' because they are easily fed before going on the trailer or a strenuous work out giving me the assurance that my horse's stomach is well prepared to deal with whatever stressful situation presents itself...and Drake just loves them!

Holiday Reinhorn, California “I began working with Gabriele four years ago after purchasing three horses with extremely difficult metabolic issues. Thanks to KAM's holistic and visionary approach to equine nutrition they have bloomed into easy keepers and are the picture of health. I know they would not be in full work today were it not for this feeding plan. KAM rocks!---“

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Marian Nilsen, Colorado, California “I have had Gabriele help me with all kinds of horses over the past decade; anything from geriatric, breeding, stallions, EPSM, high performance and everything in between. She is always there for me and my horses. My staff loves the programs because they are simple to follow. What I like the most about KAM Animal Services is how they have helped me have confidence about what I feed my horses and how to best support them. Because we have such a close relationship with Gabriele my horses are always supported no matter the situation.”

Laura Maloney, San Diego, CA “Finding and using KAM Animal Services has been instrumental in regaining my horse‟s health. Gabriele worked diligently and with great care to make sure my then sick horse had the nutritional support he needed to recover. KAM's product line has made a huge difference in the health of all of our show horses and far surpasses anything I had used in the past.”

Judi Root, Ormond Beach, FL “My horse “Blind Date” had some very severe medical issues in 2007. He had undergone a simple outpatient surgery and after returning to the farm he colicked. Within the course of a week, he colicked three times, had two colic surgeries, an incision infection, 106 degree fever, lymphangitis, then laminitis.

In desperation, my daughter located Gabriele on an equine related web site and almost immediately Gabriele contacted me. We spoke of his condition and she reinforced how fragile his life had become. I agreed to start on KAM Animal products ASAP! Within a week his health took a turn for the better. She worked closely with me concerning nutrition and he is a true miracle. We were champion in a hunter jumper show in Tampa in 2009 and Aiken 2010. I truly believe Gabriele‟s products saved his life.

Gabriele is always accessible, even if I have to call her back three times. THANK YOU GABRIELE.” Nancy Schmid, Barrington Hills IL “KAM Animal Services is not only a superior supplement manufacturer, but truly is a service company as their name indicates. Their rep is always available for input regarding your horses' use of their products and related information. My horses have all improved in general fitness and specifically with KAM. One horse, away for the winter, came home too thin and displayed possible EPM symptoms, again. He had been previously treated with a regularly recommended protocol that warns that "death" is a possible sideeffect of the product. This horse went back on KAM products and another product recommended by the KAM rep. He is now a happy horse, in perfect flesh, and was recently declared clear of EPM symptoms and ready to go back to work. Although this product wasn't in the KAM line, the rep, who is so aware of the market, shared the product with me. Another plus about the products is that the horses don't get „hot‟ as they are nourished.

“Seeing what the KAM products were doing for my horses, I asked about using it for my dogs. So we started a program of supplements for the dogs, too. The program was customized for each of them, individually, as I have 4 dogs, ranging from a busy, young 3 1/2 pounder to a (formerly) too sedate 200 pounder. In between is a very lazy 10 year old and a (formerly) slowing down 12 year old Jack Russell. They all have renewed energy, even the lazy one that never displayed any energy.”

www.kamanimalservices.com

Sample KAM’S Equine Learning Circle Tips of the Week

It’s Time to Go Organic NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) may help mask lameness while reducing pain, swelling, and inflammation, but they can also be very harmful to the equine, whether pet or athlete.

NSAIDs can contribute to GI ulcers, diarrhea from colitis and colic, which all may trigger bouts of laminitis. Even short term NSAID use has the potential for renal (kidney) and liver toxicity, and may decrease a horse’s health and performance.

Research has shown that NSAIDs may also slow down the healing process of soft tissues. This means that the patient using NSAIDs may look normal and not have pain evident, but the tissue is weaker longer and at a higher risk for re-injury during the extended healing period.

The USEF now requires an “NSAID Disclosure form” to be filed with the Steward/Technical Delegate if more than one NSAID is used during a competition or in the five days preceding a USEF competition. The use of Bute and Banamine together is currently prohibited. Starting December 1, 2011, the presence of only one NSAID will be allowed! The seven NSAIDs currently allowed with quantitative restrictions are Bute, Banamine, Naproxen, Ketofen, Arquel, Equioxx, and topical Surpass.

There are other options available for use to treat inflammation and pain. Many of the natural products are very effective while being much safer than prescription NSAIDs. Some of these may be herbal, botanical, nutritional, and/or homeopathic blends. Keep in mind not all “natural” products are safe or effective and some of them will test positive on drug screens.

KAM Animal Services offers FRE Choice Liquid as a safe effective NSAID alternative. FRE Liquid has been used in show and race horses for years with great success and is veterinarian tested and endorsed. FRE Liquid will not test positive on a drug screen (blood or urine). It is safe to use in combination with any and all other NSAIDs and any medications your horse may be receiving.

-Dr. John Hanover

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In The Heat and Humidity Electrolytes to the Rescue When it’s time to sweat, Electrolytes must come to the rescue!

When record temperatures and high humidity plague our horses, care must be taken to keep your horse hydrated and healthy. That is when giving your horse Electrolytes is essential.

Sodium, chloride, potassium and magnesium are the primary electrolytes (ions) needed by a working horse. When ions are balanced, they promote water consumption and retention, which can eliminate dehydration and other health problems. Electrolytes will keep your horse well on those super hot days.

A good sugar free electrolyte ensures a balanced blood chemistry level and does not burn or cause hind-gut discomfort. Watch out for electrolytes containing sodium chloride which immediately oxidizes in the hind-gut and creates sodium ions, which the horse cannot stop from being absorbed into the blood. If this should happen, then the sodium would replace potassium at the cellular level and hinder nutrient transfer.

When temperatures soar, it’s important that your horse gets a good quality daily ration of electrolytes in his feed as a healthy part of his feed program.

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When The Belly Hurts The World Stops@!?

Many horses suffer from stress related digestive problems. Studies show over 50% of show and race horses have ulcers in their GI tract. When the proper acid-base balance of a horse’s digestive tract is disturbed, gastric and/or intestinal ulcers may develop.

This increased intestinal permeability creates a pro-inflammatory state that may lead to food sensitivities, allergies, sore muscles and joints, impaired immune system function, colic, laminitis, and many other illnesses.

If one considers the hypothesis “you are what you eat,” you should understand the principle applies to your horse as well. An unhealthy ulcerated gut sets the stage for equine disease.

The digestive tract serves as a “door” to the Equine’s body. It is of the utmost importance that the “door” remains selectively functional. When it becomes “stuck open,” as with ulcers and dysbiosis, the digestive tract transforms into a highway for toxins and pathogens (bacteria, virus, and yeast) to enter the body and trigger disease, including systemic inflammation and lameness.

The first and foremost objective for your equine partner’s wellness program must be a wellbalanced diet. A nutrient specific supplemental program containing pre-biotics, pro-biotics, digestive enzymes, bioactive immunoglobulins, and Saccharomyces Boulardii (a beneficial yeast) will help assure a healthy digestive tract to optimize digestion and absorption.

Once you focus on your horse’s digestive health, you will find that most other health and performance concerns will improve all by themselves!

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Oh Those Sweet Calories‌!

Many horses have problems in the way they metabolize carbohydrates and sugars. When these horses exhibit clinical signs, they may be diagnosed as Insulin Resistant (IR) or having Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS).

It is important to know that the various sources of energy from feeds are digested and metabolized differently.

The three main sources of energy for horses are carbohydrates (starch), fats, and proteins. There are many commercially prepared high fat, low starch diets now available for these horses. Managing pasture turn out and grazing is also of vital importance. Grazing muzzles can save these horses lives!

A way to identify horses with possible metabolic problems is to evaluate their overall appearance. Most of these horses will have abnormal fatty deposits along their neck (cresty) and at the base of the tail. Many geldings will also have increased fat deposits around their sheath.

A long hair coat, low energy levels, recurring muscle, tendon, and/or ligament injuries, abscesses and laminitis are other good indicators of metabolic disorders. Blood tests are indicated to determine which disorder(s) is present. Research indicates that an overweight horse is more likely to become insulin resistant.

Implementing a weight loss program through calorie and carbohydrate restriction, controlled exercise, and appropriate nutritional supplements may be all that is necessary to get insulin/glucose levels under control.

Horses suffering from Insulin Resistance or Equine Metabolic Syndrome can greatly benefit from a nutrient specific supplemental program.

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What You Eat Is What You Are When a horse gets stressed their digestion and gut can suffer with ulcers and other ailments. How to identify potential problems is something every horse owner should learn. One way to help prevent your horse(s) from getting sick or bring them back to health is by making sure what they eat is good for them. We pay careful attention to our diets, but do we pay attention to what we feed our horses? What our horses eat is important if we want them to be healthy and free from disease.

There are many factors to consider when trying to manage a horse’s weight or have them gain weight. To start with, the feed quality and source of calories within the feed is critical. We all know eating fat promotes gaining fat more than eating protein does. Did you know the quality of that fat affects the health of the cells throughout the body and that eating “bad” fats will decrease overall health and performance? A feed should be palatable, digestible, consistent, and made with high quality ingredients.

Next are the teeth. Proper dentition is needed to chew the feed, thereby increasing the surface area exposed for digestion.

Then there is the stomach and intestinal tract where the feed is mixed with digestive enzymes and the microflora (bacteria and yeast) that are necessary to break down the food particles for absorption. A deficiency or imbalance of these enzymes, bacteria, and/or yeast, known as dysbiosis, can lead to poor digestion, malabsorption, and weight loss regardless of the feed quality or quantity given. Long term dysbiosis leads to leaky gut syndrome which creates a pro-inflammatory state within the body leading to a wide variety of problems varying from sore muscles and joints to laminitis and/or allergies.

Inflammation in the gut inhibits absorption of nutrients, exacerbates vitamin and mineral deficiencies, suppresses immune system functions, compromises normal detoxification pathways, and breaks down the protective barrier of the GI tract. Once the gut lining is damaged it can no longer ward off toxins and pathogenic protozoa, bacteria, viruses and yeasts. A “gut-conditioning” program will re-condition the digestive tract to reduce inflammation, promote healing and healthy weight management and weight gain when needed. Remember, no guts-no glory!

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A Comfortable Jaw = A Happy Horse Many unhappy, possibly spooky, one sided, intermittently lame horses have TMJ (temporomandibular joint) distress. The biomechanics of TMJ are directly related to a horse’s posture, balance, rhythm, and general well being. The jaw joint is grossly overlooked by horsemen, veterinarians, and even equine dentists. It is the closest joint in the body to the brain and brain stem and is flooded with proprioceptors that tell the body where it is in space. Many dental practitioners are far too focused on smoothing up those molar tables without even considering how their work affects the TMJ. Now with the advent of SO many new power instruments on the market it is easy to get over aggressive with the floating.

Even though horses do have continually erupting teeth, there are only so many teeth that can erupt over a year’s time and that amount diminishes significantly as horses age. We see horses in our practice daily that have been overfloated in the molars to the extent that their table angles have been flattened and even sometimes reversed. These table angles are necessary for proper guidance to the jaw joint. It also leaves the horse riding on his incisors (front teeth) with little or NO molar contact.

These horses go into TMJ Myofascial pain syndrome trying to clench the muscles that close the jaw in an effort to get their molars back in contact.

The trigger points for the temporalis, masseter and medial pterygoid muscles are extremely reactive. They are living in constant distress. There is a delicate three point balance between the incisors, the molars and the jaw joint, and when this is harmonious, the horse’s nervous system is balanced and they can truly come through in their bodies. Overfloated molars can cause TMJ hyper reactivity, and too much pressure on the incisors causes even more distress even on the organs through neural connections and acupuncture meridian imbalances. These horses have static playing in their nervous systems. They cannot hear the subtle signals from a rider’s hands or be responsive to the bit on the sensitive and sensual soft tissues in the mouth. Often their entire body is sore.

The jaw joint can move back and forth (anterior and posteriorly) as well as side to side (laterally). Anterior motion of the mandible is essential for proper movement throughout the entire horse’s body. Most everybody checks for lateral motion; very few check for anterior motion.

What can you do? Listen to your horse chew his hay or graze on pasture. There should be a clear, hollow grinding sound as his molars masticate the forage. Palpate the trigger points around his jaw and see if they are comfortable. Look at your horse’s front teeth. Are they symmetrical? When you lift his head up the lower incisors should move backwards toward his ears. More importantly, when you lower his head they should slide forward at least 1/8th of an inch.

Watch a dentist work before you let them practice on your horse. Do they palpate and evaluate the horse’s TMJ? Do they address the incisors as well as the molars? Are they in a hurry? Do they over sedate the horse and then hoist or elevate their heads into an abnormal position to perform the dentistry? Do they understand that the work they are doing will directly affect the harmonics and resonance of your horse’s nervous system? Are they using powerfloats or hand instruments designed to fit comfortably in a horse’s mouth?

Dr. Heather Mack (www.balancedequinewellness.com)

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The Power House Called the Immune System Without the immune system we die! However, it causes a lot of health problems when it is not working properly.

The immune system’s job is to protect us from and eliminate external pathogens (bacteria, viruses, yeast, parasites, and allergens) and internal pathogens (cancer cells, toxins, metabolic waste, and damaged cells/tissues).

Approximately 70% of the immune system is surrounding the GI tract, leaving very little to protect the skin, respiratory tract, and all other tissues. An unhealthy GI tract leads to an overloaded stressed immune system that can lose its ability to respond properly when challenged.

When it over responds we see allergies (hives, heaves-COPD), autoimmune diseases, and/or inflamed tissues (laminitis, sore muscles & joints). When the immune system is fatigued and can’t respond, the horse is more prone to all types of infections.

Products that stimulate the immune system are not always beneficial and may be more harmful in some cases.

Decreasing immune system stress by healing the GI tract while supporting the immune system and balancing its response is always good. Vaccinating horses with immune problems and over vaccinating can lead to more problems, so be careful and be aware.

"Let food be your medicine and medicine be your food."

Hippocrates, 400 B.C.

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