Trade Talk April 2011

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Welcome

T

he range of products under the banner of ‘healthcare’ for horses is vast and diverse, from first aid essentials to fly repellents to wormers, and everything else in between. This issue of Trade Talk aims to provide some clarity, and profiles some of the main manufacturers operating within this sector.

There’s no denying the fact that horses are accident-prone, susceptible to a huge array of injuries, illnesses and infections, both inside and out. As well as being much loved ‘pets’, many horses are highly valuable, and as such it is only natural that horse owners will want to do all they can to protect their animals from harm. When choosing healthcare products to stock, and particularly if shelf space is limited, it is best to think in terms of essential and seasonal. Essential products to have on display all year round might include first aid kits ­and the necessary item replacements, wormers (if there is an SQP on site), and certain feed supplements and therapy items, depending perhaps on your customer base. Seasonal products meanwhile will include the likes of fly spray, fly masks, sunscreen and cooling wraps in summer to help keep the problems of warmer weather at bay, whilst in winter the demand items are likely to include anti-bacterial mud fever treatments as well as hoof preparations to fight any problems associated with moisture imbalance. Respiratory disease is also likely to be more of an issue in winter. Another thing to consider when selecting stock is natural versus ‘synthetic’ healthcare. Technology is constantly evolving to produce treatments that are highly effective and long lasting, but there will be some customers who will want to use a more chemicalfree approach to treating certain ailments. Providing customers with a choice of at least two or three brands can therefore be the best solution.

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Contents

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First aid essentials

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Healthy airways

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D and H Group Fly Away Ltd

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Horsessentials

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LS Sales (Farnam) Ltd

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Merial Animal Health

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Stable Environment Tagg Equestrian

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Virbac Animal Health

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Fighting the flies

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Muddy problems

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Aromatherapy for horses

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Directory

EQUESTRIAN DIRECTORY

Contact us T: +44 (0)1953 850678 F: +44 (0)1953 851936 E: enquiries@tradetalkonline.co.uk

DisclaimeR

Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that the information contained in this directory is both accurate and up-to-date, Trade Talk accepts no liability to any party for loss or damage incurred by reliance on the information contained in this publication or through omission or errors, howsoever caused.

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First aid essentials Horses seem to have a great propensity for injuring themselves and others around them. A well-stocked and up-todate equine first aid kit is therefore a basic essential for any yard, and should be readily at hand should any injury or emergency suddenly arise. If the horse has received an injury, the first thing the horse owner must do is decide whether or not veterinary assistance is required. This depends on the type, size, depth, location and severity of the problem. However, for more minor injuries the horse owner should be able to provide some treatment themselves, with the help of an equine first aid kit.

every item after use to avoid getting caught out in an emergency, and replace anything that has gone past its sell-by date. Ideally, horse owners should have at least two first aid kits on hand – one for the stable and one for use when travelling. First aid supplies must be kept in a dry, clean and sturdy box or bag, which should be properly secured to ensure that dirt and dust cannot contaminate any of the contents. Kits should also be kept well organised and should contain a full checklist of items so the user can easily see what is present and what is missing. As a retailer, it may be beneficial to produce your own checklist of first aid essentials to help horse owners remember what they need.

Check list:

• Thermometer An elevated temperature is often one of the first signs that the horse is harbouring an illness or infection. As a rough guide, the horse’s normal temperature should be in the region of 98.5F to 101F (36.9C to 38.3C). A digital thermometer is preferable, as it will beep when peak temperature is reached and will save the last temperature taken, making it easier to record. Mercury thermometers work just as well, but care must be taken to ensure that it is not cracked, as this may cause an incorrect reading.

• Antiseptic wound cleanser

Every tack shop should have the essential first aid items in stock, encouraging customers to replenish 4

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Antiseptic wound cleansers are ideal for washing and cleaning skin infections, cuts and puncture wounds. Any first aid kit should include at least one type of antiseptic cleanser – common

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focus on... Healthcare solutions include Hibiscrub (chlorhexidine) and Pevidine (povidone-iodine), which should be diluted with water before use in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

• Wound powder, spray or cream These are a must for keeping wounds clean and free from infection. There is a wide range of products on the market, from herbal to the more medicinal applications, but again it is best for the horse owner to have two or more different types in their kit so as to be prepared for different situations. Antiseptic sprays are often brightly coloured, which may make the horse look unsightly but helps with targeting.

• Cotton wool At least one large roll of cotton wool is a must for any first aid kit – around 500g is best. Cotton wool is useful for cleaning wounds, mopping up and dabbing on powders, but advise customers that dry cotton wool is not suitable for applying directly to wounds or for use as padding under bandages, as it will stick.

• Veterinary poultice and gamgee Veterinary poultices can be used hot to increase the blood supply to the affected area and draw out infection, whilst also providing comforting warmth, or cold for treating bruising, sprains and strains. Licensed poultice dressings can also be used dry as a wound dressing. Veterinary gamgee meanwhile provides a soft, low-adherent wound interface with excellent absorbency and insulating properties. Gamgee can be used to promote healing and protect wounds from external trauma, either used as a primary wound dressing or applied over a dressing to relieve pressure points.

• Bandages Sterile bandages are vital for keeping wound dressings in place, and every equine first aid kit should be stocked with a variety. Selfadhesive bandages are the most practical as they are easier to put in place. Human bandages should not be used for horses as they are difficult to keep in place.

• Scissors Scissors are essential. They should be sharp and round ended, and kept for use only with the first aid kit so that they don’t become contaminated.

• Other useful items Other items that are useful for inclusion in a first aid kit include:

• A clean towel • Thick, waterproof tape (such as duct • • • • • •

tape) Baler twine Petroleum jelly (Vaseline) Epsom salts A hoof pick A torch Disposable gloves

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Healthy airways Healthy airways are fundamental to the fitness, comfort and performance of any horse or pony. The respiratory system is perfectly designed to cope with high levels of exercise, but is also very delicate and susceptible to infection. Horse owners must therefore be made aware of the importance of maintaining the right environment for the promotion of respiratory health. Respiratory disease is one of the most common causes of illness in horses, but can often go unnoticed in the early stages, being not so obvious as other common health issues such as lameness. Left untreated however, what was once a minor problem can quickly develop into a serious or chronic health complaint. Problems in this area can be divided roughly into two main areas – infectious and non-infectious. Infectious respiratory problems generally are the result of a bacterial or viral cause. Equine Influenza for example is a virus which is highly infectious, although horses can be protected from this debilitating condition by vaccination.

Certain internal parasites are also known to cause respiratory illness, as they migrate through the lungs and respiratory system. These include roundworm – common in young horses – and lungworm, which causes chronic coughing and is more usually seen in horses that share their paddock with donkeys. A proper deworming programme will usually keep these parasites at bay.

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One of the major everyday culprits of noninfectious respiratory complaints is dust and fungal spores. The stable environment is potentially full of these prospective irritants, from forage, feed, bedding and arena surfaces, and so steps must be taken to limit these effects. This includes keeping the stable free from dust-trapping cobwebs, ensuring good stable ventilation and maximising turnout time.

Symptoms of respiratory illness If the horse owner suspects that there is something wrong with their animal’s breathing, they should always consult their vet, who will be able to provide a proper diagnosis and recommend suitable treatments. Symptoms that the horse may be suffering include:

• Thick or coloured nasal discharge • Shortness of breath • Laboured, wheezy or congested breathing • Heaving flanks • Low energy levels • Swollen lymph nodes under the jaw • Elevated temperature Retailers can help by recommending feeding and bedding products that are dust extracted and highly absorbent (as the ammonia from urine can also act as a respiratory irritant). Shavings or wood pellets together with rubber matting for example may be more suitable bedding than straw for horses prone to dust allergies, and there are also specialist oils available which can be added to equine bedding to help with breathing.

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focus on... Healthcare Hay soakers and hay steamers will also make useful purchases for owners of affected animals. Hay – particularly that which is of poorer quality – can be a major source of dust, and should ideally be soaked for around half an hour before feeding, or alternatively haylage can be provided instead. Forage should be fed from ground level, as this is the more natural feeding position and allows the respiratory system to drain. Respiratory supplements meanwhile can be added to the diet or provided in the form of a lick. These may comprise natural or herbal blends or more scientific formulations, all designed to support respiratory immunity and aid lung function. Menthol, eucalyptus and aniseed are ingredients known to help keep airways clear and reduce irritation, whilst the antioxidants selenium, vitamin C and vitamin E can benefit the immune system and help the horse to fight any infection.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Also known as Recurrent Airway Obstruction (RAO) or ‘heaves’, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a non-infectious allergic disease of the lung. It causes the airways to become constricted, making it harder for the horse to breathe – resulting in deeper or faster breathing than usual as well as coughing. COPD commonly occurs during the winter when horses are stabled for longer periods of time, although a summer form of the disease – Summer Pasture Associated Pulmonary Disease – is also possible, and often harder to treat. The condition ranges in severity from mild (only noticeable during exercise) to very serious, where permanent damage may be caused to the lungs (sometimes termed ‘broken wind’). Diagnosis of COPD can be confirmed by a ‘scoping’ the horse, which involves passing an endoscope into the windpipe via the nose and collecting a sample of fluid for testing. Management of this condition involves keeping the horse’s environment as dustfree as possible. In addition, bronchodilators (such as Ventipulman) or inhalers (for longer term use) may be prescribed to assist with breathing, and corticosteroids may be required in more serious cases or if the horse does not respond to other treatments.

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D and H Group The VetSet range is a complete range of bandages, dressings and veterinary accessories offering exceptional value for money, better margin and opens a raft of opportunities when backed by excellent stocks, professional packaging and the renowned ‘VetSet reward scheme’. The generous reward scheme is an excellent idea - simple and worthwhile! Keep it yourself or use it to keep your customers coming back: collect 14 ‘Confidence Coins’ from the outer packaging and you will receive a generous £5.00 shopping voucher for a major high street store! Excellent retailer and surgery support is available by way of special promotions, literature, staff training as well as bespoke first aid kits to ensure that horse owners and veterinarians can ‘care with confidence’. Following the success of the VetSet products in veterinary surgeries across the UK, the range is now available to retailers and wholesalers through the D&H Group. Contact any of the team to discuss retailer opportunities or locate a wholesaler near you.

CONTACTS: Address: Maple House, Hamlin Way, King’s Lynn PE30 4HG Tel: +44 (0)8452 702224 Fax: +44 (0)8452 703334 Email: info@dandhgroup.co.uk www.dandhgroup.co.uk

Fly Away Ltd Fly Away is naturally different. New ‘Max Strength’ Fly Repellent is a triple strength natural formula to complement the existing natural fly repellent ranges. ’Max Strength’ is the strongest totally natural fly repellent ever. Still enhancing the coat’s natural shine and remaining invisible upon application. Contains citronella oil. HSE approved. Contains no FEI listed banned substances. ‘Max Strength’ gives the ultimate protection against all flying and biting insects, combating regional insect differences and aiding itch related problems. RRP: £11.99 for 500ml. Seal to Heal from Fly Away is a transparent dressing for horses with minor wounds, cuts and grazes and also for those with mud related problems including cracked heels. This flexible barrier helps protect against the bacteria found in mud as well as dirt, flies and other irritants. Quick and easy to use. Forms a protective layer in 60 seconds. RRP: £9.99 for 100ml. Available from all major wholesalers.

CONTACTS: Address: Unit 7, Thistle Grove Farm, Quandry Lane, Nr Belbroughton, West Midlands DY9 9UU Tel: +44 (0)1384 877857 Fax: +44 (0)8458 628580 Email: info@flyaway.ltd.uk www.flyaway.ltd.uk 8

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Horsessentials Ltd Horsessentials is a line of natural horse care products, designed for nature-conscious horse owners and riders. The company’s philosophy is simple: why should customers use on their horse a product that they would not use on themselves? Horsessentials products are highly concentrated in top quality, 100% natural ingredients, such as pure essential oils, plant tinctures, aloe vera and vegetable oils. The products do not contain synthetic colorants, synthetic fragrances or parabens. Wherever possible, the company uses natural bases and preservatives. The Horsessentials range includes coat and skin care products, muscle, tendon and joint care products, hoof care products and airways care products. Top sellers include a soothing gel for the skin, a shampoo for itchy skin and a relaxing gel for muscles. Horsessentials products are manufactured in France. The company is currently looking for an agent for the UK and Ireland.

CONTACTS: Address: 3 Queen Street, Ashford, Kent, TN23 1RF. Tel +44 7919 350 440 or + 33 674 409 560 Fax + 44 2080 825 420 Email info@horsessentials.com www.horsessentials.com

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LS Sales (Farnam) Ltd LS Sales (Farnam) is committed to adding new and innovative products to the range in 2011. Tri-Tec 14 is the new fly spray (HSE 9215) now available in the UK from the USA, to lead the fight against infectious diseases such as Swamp Fever, West Nile Virus, Lyme Tick Disease and many more. Tri-Tec 14 kills the flies, culicoides, mosquitoes, ticks and lice that can carry infectious disease. The unique formula of Cypermethrin, Pyrethrins, Permethrins, strong polymers and UV sunscreen keeps it in place for 14 days making it effective, long lasting and economical. Available in three sizes: RRP: £19.99 for 473ml, RRP: £34.99 for 946ml, and RRP: £94.00 for a 3.8 litre container. Retailers large and small are welcome to order Tri-Tec 14 and any other products from the Farnam range from Leslie Sutcliffe or Battles.

CONTACTS: Address: Bloxham Mill, Barford Road, Bloxham, Oxon OX15 4FF Tel: +44 (0)1608 683855 Fax: +44 (0)1608 683856 Email: orders@lesliesutcliffe.biz www.lesliesutcliffe.biz

Merial Animal Health Ltd Merial Animal Health Limited is a world-leading, innovation-driven animal health company, providing a comprehensive range of products including Eqvalan and Eqvalan Duo – equine wormers. Eqvalan paste for horses is licensed to treat more species and stages of parasite than any other summer or winter wormer, and Eqvalan Duo paste is licensed to treat more species and stages of parasite than any other spring or autumn wormer including tapeworm. Retailers and SQPs play an important role in advising horse owners on effective worming strategies and the potential for resistance is becoming an increasingly important subject. 2011 sees the evolution of Merial’s communication strategy, further developing programmes to help retailers build customer loyalty, by providing long-term support, services and solutions for equine worm management. Additionally, Merial has special offers to engage consumers in worming and high quality CPD for SQPs to keep informed on this hot topic.

CONTACTS: Address: Sandringham House, Harlow Business Park, Harlow CM19 5TG Tel: +44 (0)1279 775858 Fax: +44 (0)1279 775888 Email: ukcompanionanimal@merial.com www.merial.com www.smartworming.co.uk www.tradetalkonline.co.uk

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NAF NaturalintX - the new name in equine first aid. The new NaturalintX first aid range offers a choice of veterinary approved, 100% natural dressings for wound management, together with naturally formulated applications to support the healing of minor wounds, cuts, abrasions and strains. NaturalintX Poultice - 100% natural, veterinary approved poultice for use on minor wounds and abrasions. NaturalintX Hoof Poultice - poultice for use on minor wounds of the foot. Designed to comfortably fit the horse’s hoof, enabling quick, easy application. NaturalintX Wrap - cohesive, elasticated support bandage, to hold dressings in place. Full range of colours. NaturalintX Dressing - highly absorbent, cotton padding to insulate the leg and support minor wound management. NaturalintX Cotton Wool Roll - super soft, made from 100% natural cotton fibres for maximum absorbency. NaturalintX First Aid Applications - naturally formulated products to care and support the healing of minor cuts, abrasions and bruising; including Aloe Vera Purple Spray, Arnica Gel, MSM Ointment and Wound Cream.

CONTACTS: Address: Wonastow Industrial Est West, Monmouth NP25 5JA Tel: +44 (0)1600 710700 Fax: +44 (0)1600 710701 Email: sales@naf-uk.com www.naf-uk.com

Stable Environment Limited The natural choice for animal skin care. All products are environmentally friendly and biodegradable. Synergistically blended with highest grade pure essential oils, designed to promote healthy skin and well being. Formed to have multiple benefits, helping to minimise overall maintenance costs. Bright graphical pictures illustrate each products use, making them easily identifiable. Almost silent trigger action, with increased product release. Products available from; Wholesales B Jenkinson & sons Ltd. Tel: +44 (0)1924 454681 www.elico.co.uk and Trilanco Ltd: +44 (0)1253 888188 www.equos.co.uk Larger trade orders can be purchased directly from the company, minimum order 500 units. Orders can be mixed. All dispenser products are packed in six’s and the 5-litre re-fill The Ultimate Fly Repellent & Skin Tonic is packed in two’s. Good profit margins. RRP is £8.99 for all dispenser products and 5-litre re-fill is £49.99, saving the end user more £10.00. 10% company profits go to Animals in Distress, Charity no 615886.

CONTACTS: Address: PO Box 646, Halifax HX1 9HP Tel: +44 (0)1422 310483 Fax: +44 (0)1422 310378 Email: info@stable-environment.co.uk www.stable-environment.co.uk 12

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Fal Pro from Tagg Equestrian The innovative Sweet Itch Plus Rug from Fal Pro incorporates X-Static, the silver textile fibre permanently woven into the fabric. The cut and fit of the rug acts to provide maximum coverage and protection from the sun’s rays and biting insects and the silver interactive layer offers many additional therapeutic benefits. Silver interactive technology has been shown to both repel and eliminate microbial and fungal infections. Silver aids in the effective stimulation of the circulation, promoting healing and reducing allergic reactions in sensitive horses making this the perfect rug for summer protection. Silver also cools the horse by conducting the heat away from the skin. This is the only sweet itch rug available to actively combat the symptoms of sweet itch. A matching fly mask is also available to protect the sensitive eye and areas.

CONTACTS: Address: Home Farm Barn, Winkburn, Newark, Nottinghamshire NG22 8PQ Tel: +44 (0)1636 636135 Fax: +44 (0)1636 636643 Email: sales@taggequestrian.co.uk www.taggequestrian.co.uk

Virbac Animal Health 10 years after its entry into the equine market place with leading wormer brands Equimax and Eraquell, Virbac Animal Health continues to innovate within the industry. Virbac will be hosting the first Equine SQP CPD webinars in May ahead of the June 30th AMTRA CPD points deadline. These two seminars have been approved by AMTRA and will be worth 7 CPD points each or a total of 20 points if both are attended. “We are aware that a number of SQPs are still in need of CPD seminar points ahead of the June 30th deadlines,” says Callum Blair MRCVS, senior veterinary adviser for Virbac. “Opportunities to earn these points are running out and the cost incurred in attending seminars can be significant particularly to SQPs in remote communities. Webinars provide the ideal platform for SQPs to attend a seminar without having to leave home or close the shop for a day.” The seminars will take place in the evening and cost £15.00 (+VAT) each. Anyone wishing to attend these webinars should email enquiries@ virbac.co.uk to register their interest including their name and contact details.

CONTACTS: Address: Woolpit Business Park, Windmill Avenue, Woolpit, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk IP30 9UP Tel: +44 (0)1359 243243 Email: enquiries@virbac.co.uk www.equimax-gel.com or www.equimax-tabs.com www.tradetalkonline.co.uk

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Fighting the flies The summer months always see a resurgence in the insect population. Flies and midges are irritating to both horses and humans alike, but are of particular nuisance to those animals suffering from an allergy to insect bites. Trade Talk takes a look at how horse owners can keep the damage caused by flying pests to a minimum.

Many horses

have an allergic Most if not all horses will need protecting horses during the warmer reaction to the midge months, and it is thought from flies and midges one way or another throughout the spring, summer and into that around 4% of bite, a distressing autumn. Not only are these flying pests a equines in the UK suffer condition known as general nuisance to horses, for example when from this unpleasant skin sweet itch crowding around their eyes, but insect bites – condition. Tom Eastwood of and subsequent scratching – can also cause real Tagg Equestrian explains: “For discomfort as well as unsightly lumps and bumps. most horses, flies are an irritation prevalent through Sweet itch, officially known as recurrent seasonal the summer months which can be alleviated with pruritis, can be a particular problem for some the use of a good fly repellent application regime, combined with the use of a fly sheet and mask, or even by putting them out through the night rather during the day at the height of the summer when the flies are at their worst. But too many have an allergic reaction to the midge bite, a visible and distressing condition known as sweet itch.” Tom continues: “Horses that have the sweet itch condition are having an allergic reaction to the bite of the midge fly, causing such a severe reaction in some cases that they will rub, especially the mane and dock areas and along the top line, to the extent that these areas are rubbed hairless and are severely inflamed and sore. This condition can cause extreme severe distress both for the horse and for the owner trying to deal with it.” 14

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focus on... Healthcare The best way to manage sweet itch is through control of the horse’s environment. This includes the use of fly sprays and emollient (softening and soothing) creams, as well as protective clothing such as fly masks and rugs, but also devices such as bug zappers, fly trapping tape and stable fans.

Fly repellent There are a multitude of fly repellents on the market, comprising different ingredients (natural or chemical) in varying strengths, in the form of sprays, creams, gels or wipes. The active ingredients in all fly repellents must be approved by the Health & Safety Executive prior to being sold. In September 1st 2006, an EU ruling as part of the Biocidal Products Directive (1998) banned the use of citronella in commercial fly sprays, although manufacturers of these products could apply to have citronella exempted from the directive by submitting evidence of its safety and efficacy, and a certain amount of citronella is still permissible providing it is not claimed to be an active ingredient. A synthetic alternative known as diethyltoluamide (DEET) is now popular in chemical fly sprays, and is also used for human application to keep away mosquitoes. However, like citronella, DEET can cause skin irritation in some cases and if used in larger quantities should be washed off the skin after prolonged use. Permethrin is another longlasting and highly effective chemical used in some commercial fly sprays, often specifically to treat sweet itch. This chemical can however be highly toxic to cats. More natural fly repellents on the other hand are available for horse owners wishing to avoid chemical applications. Common ingredients include garlic oil and tea tree oil. Indeed, garlic in particular is thought to have natural insect repelling properties, and can also be fed as a dietary supplement to support the horse in this respect.

Protective clothing Fly masks, fringes and rugs and are also vital items to stock in summer to help customers to beat the bugs. Fly masks and fringes today offer a high level of protection to the horse’s head whilst remaining cool and without overly reducing vision, and some can also guard against sunburn. A careful and proper fit is required so that the flies cannot get inside the mask and cause even more of a nuisance! Likewise, fly rugs are ideal for horses that particularly suffer with flies and midges, such as those with sweet itch. Many provide protective coverage all over, and again can also protect vulnerable horses from sunburn. The technology behind these rugs is becoming more and more advanced, with technical fabrics allowing the skin to keep cool and breathe. Some also offer natural therapeutic benefits, and can help to repel bacterial and fungal infections and promote circulation and healing. Ideally, the horse should be rugged when turned out before the arrival of the midge fly problem to observe the full benefits that a fly rug can provide.

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Muddy problem Mud fever is one of the most comment ailments associated with winter. It can range in severity from slight heat and swelling to severe pain, infection and lameness, and the wetter the winter, the greater the risk of it becoming a problem. Mud fever – like the similar condition rain scald ­– is a skin condition caused by bacteria present in mud, known as Dermatophilus congolensis. This bacteria thrives in damp environments, meaning that avoiding mud fever can be tricky – the horse’s legs need to be kept as clean and as dry as possible, but this is not always easy in muddy paddocks. Horses with white or feathered The horse’s legs are usually the more legs need to be susceptible. Clipping (not kept as clean and dry shaving) the areas at as possible, but risk can help prevent an this is not always infection developing, as easy can turning the horse out in specially designed chaps or leg wraps to protect the legs from mud. Alternatively, using a specialist spray designed to repel mud can help, and there is also a wide range of barrier creams, ointments and powders designed to fight off mud fever or treat any that does occur. These often include bactericide to kill off the infection, and can help soothe the skin and reduce inflammation, forming a waterproof barrier to protect against damp and dirt whilst still allowing the skin to breathe. Anti-bacterial washes should be used before cream to clean the legs and any remove scabs and debris. Mud fever can potentially be very infectious, and any scabs removed should be carefully disposed of. Horses suffering should ideally be isolated, with all shared grooming items disinfected after use.

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Remind customers also that any deep cracks or sores should be dressed, taking care to keep them dry. If the skin is broken, bacteria can penetrate the skin and a deeper infection known as cellulitis can develop, often causing severe discomfort, fever and lameness. Serious cases of mud fever can therefore sometimes require a course of antibiotics, and if the horse owner is unsure, they should be advised to consult their vet for a firmer diagnosis. Other products to help in the fight against mud fever include certain nutritional supplements that are aimed at promoting healthy skin (using ingredients such as ginger and milk thistle with antioxidant properties). Riding in deep mud can also sometimes cause horses to overreach, and so investing in a pair of overreach boots might also be beneficial for worried customers. In short, retailers should remind horse owners to be proactive, not reactive, when it comes to mud fever, and stock up in advance with products to prevent and treat any problems.

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Aromatherapy for horses Aromatherapy can be a remarkably effective natural therapy, which involves the use of essential oils to prevent or cure illnesses and improve health and well-being. Violaine Chassaing of Horsessentials explains more. Essential oils are 100%-natural substances obtained by steam distillation of aromatic plants. They are highly concentrated in active principles, and both extremely powerful and subtle substances at the same time. They are particularly well suited to horses due to their great sensitivity and acute sense of smell. Using essential oils nevertheless requires in-depth knowledge, given their high concentration in active principles. Before using an essential oil, one must first find out its biochemical composition (or ‘chemotype’) in order to determine its therapeutic properties. This is now possible thanks to modern techniques such as mass spectrometry and gaseous chromatography. These techniques also permit to control the quality of the essential oil, as they make it possible to detect any traces of denaturation by addition of chemicals or other essential oils or any presence of fertilizer residues or pesticides. To insure maximum efficiency, an essential oil must be 100% natural (i.e. not denatured by addition of any chemicals), 100% pure (i.e. not mixed with any other essential oils having similar characteristics) and 100% integral (meaning that the totality of the molecules contained in the distilled plant have been collected during the distillation process).

Listed below are some of the main properties of essential oils, with a few examples: Antibacterial, antifungal, antiparasitic (tea tree, cinnamon, Atlas cedar) Antiseptic (most citrus essences) Antiviral (ravintsara, niaouli, eucalyptus radiata) Antitussive, mucolytic, expectorant (eucalyptus, cypress, inula) Anti-inflammatory (Italian everlasting, wintergreen, lavender) Antispasmodic (basil, tarragon, lavender) Anti-allergic (tarragon, blue tansy, Roman chamomile) Analgesic (peppermint, lavender) Healing (lavender, Italian everlasting, rockrose, myrrh) Calming, relaxing, soothing (Roman chamomile, marjoram, mandarin, lavender) Some of the oils mentioned above require precautions for use (dosage/dilution, routes of administration to avoid/favour, contraindications for gestating mares or foals, risks of photosensitization, risks of allergies, etc). It is thus recommended that customers always get advice from a qualified aromatherapist before using essential oils or use ready-made products. While it appears that essential oils can be very beneficial, it must be emphasized that these substances are extremely powerful and that they may, even though they are 100% natural, potentially be harmful if used ill-advisedly and without in-depth knowledge. While it is perfectly possible to safely use certain essential oils to remedy minor ailments on a day-to-day basis, any intention to treat a more serious condition with essential oils will require the intervention of a qualified aromatherapist acting in association with a veterinarian. Essential oils nevertheless remain a wonderful tool to help prevent illnesses and stimulate the body’s self-healing capabilities.

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Contact Details

Agrihealth Ltd (incorporating Eddie Palin)

+44 (0)2838314570 www.eddiepalin.com Andover Healthcare

+1 800 432 6686 www.andoverhealthcare.com

Fine Fettle Feed

NAF

+44 (0)1600 712496 www.finefettlefeed.com

+44 (0)1600 710700 www.naf-uk.com

Fly Away Ltd

Natural Animal Feeds

+44(0)1384 877857 www.flyaway.ltd.uk FMBs Therapy Systems

D and H Group

Tel: +44 (0)8452 702224 www.dandhgroup.co.uk

+44 (0)1628 472440 www.fmbs.co.uk

+44 (0)1548 531770 www.equimins.com

+44 (0)20 8394 2659 www.h-10.co.uk Healing Tree UK Ltd

Equine Management

+44 (0)1825 840002 www.equineman.com Equisea Ltd

+44 (0)8453 713913 www.equisea.com Equissage

+44 (0)800 072 1180 www.equissage.co.uk

+44 (0)7850 738875 www.healing-tree.co.uk

+44 (0)1934 751226 www.equivetanimalcare.com

+44 (0)7794094011 www.fabteksolutions.com

+44 (0)1636 636135 www.taggequestrian.co.uk 18

TRADE talk

equestrian directory

Robinson Animal Healthcare

+44 (0)1909 735000 www.robinsonhealthcare.com Stable Environment

+44 (0)7919 350 440 www.horsessentials.com

Trelawne Equine

Keratex

+44 (0)844 257 8585 www.trelawneequine.co.uk

+44 (0)1373 827649 www.keratex.com

Trilanco

+44 (0)1777 860860 www.levertonco.co.uk

+44 (0)1608 683855 www.lesliesutcliffe.biz Merial Animal Health Ltd

Fal Pro from Tagg Equestrian

+44 (0)1339 889330 www.pro-equine.com

+44 (0)1422 310483 www.stable-environment.co.uk

LS Sales (Farnam) Fabtek Limited

+44 (0)1474 813999 www.net-tex.co.uk

Horsessentials

Leverton & Company Equivet Animal Care Products

Net-Tex Industries Ltd

Pro-Equine Ltd H-10 Limited

Equimins

+44 (0)800 373106 www.naf-uk.com

+44 (0)1279 775858 www.smartworming.co.uk

www.tradetalkonline.co.uk

+44 (0)1253 888188 www.z-itch.co.uk Verm-X

+44 (0)870 850 2313 www.verm-x.com Virbac

+44 (0)1359 243243 www.virbac.co.uk Westgate Laboratories

+44 (0)1670 791994 www.westgatelabs.co.uk




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