Healthy Horse Tip

AS USEF NSAID RULES CHANGE, IT’S TIME TO GO ORGANIC

T1Kick the habit final 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.

This tip was brought to you by Dr. John Hanover and KAM Animal Services, home of KAM’s “Equine Learning Circle” FREE webinars, which take place every month. Go to www.kamanimalservices.com to sign up for their next webinar. If you attend when they are live they are free. If you want to be able to listen to them again or download them the annual fee is $89 and includes all the webinars. These webinars will conclude with a question and answer session, so be ready with your nutrition questions