My horse, Vashka, has come down with a virus. It started with some lethargy and then quickly grew into a full blown illness, complete with a fever, respiratory track infection and tummy upset.
I'm not going to lie and say I didn't panic. I did.
But with the help of on-site veterinary care from Mitchell Benson, and the guidance of our certified herbalist, Catherine Bird, Vashka's fever is gone, his appetite is back and the pep is beginning to come back into his step.
His care includes anti-biotics, pro-biotics (I used a paste to deliver live bacteria immediately to the gut) and the following herbs, which I highly suggest every horse person put in their emergency kit, ASAP:
- White Willow Bark-- contains the active ingredient, salicin, the active ingredient in aspirin. It is a proven painkiller appropriate for colds, fever, minor infections, headache, arthritis and pain caused by inflammation. (My vet was very happy with its quick results.)
- Fennel Seed-- this is actually a fruit found in the seed heed. It is an antiseptic and secretolytic, which means it helps the secretion of saliva and gastric juices. Reputed to stop stomach cramps. Combined with Chamomile, also helps to stop colic. Vashka and his pony love it.
- Chamomile Flower Buds -- Can stop spasms in the smooth muscle lining of the stomach and intestines, and contains chemicals that are anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral, and antiparasitic.
- Beet Root Powder-- Naturally sweet, this powder is what I add to Vashka's anti-biotics -- or anything else he does not want to eat. One tablespoon or so allowed to soak in a medicine for 20 to 30 minutes, seems to completely eliminate the medicine's bitterness. I syringe in to ensure my horses get every drop of what they require. Beet Root powder is a real life saver.
* Source of some herbal information: Mountainroseherbs.com
"SKODE"
What helpful information! Thanks for this post.
Posted by: Cherie | May 20, 2009 at 12:53 AM