Pollen abounds

Global Herbs Dr Stephen Ashdown talks about the change of season and what it might mean for your horse.

Spring is here again. The new shoots of life and colour are out marked by many as the start of new life, but with it brings its very own challenges. As this cyclical event takes hold, large amounts of pollen entering the air around us and animals leads to aggravation of allergic reactions, not experienced in high levels through winter months.

Many allergic conditions are further increased due to poor air circulation and high grass levels, which contribute to trapped pollen particles in the atmosphere.

Allergic reactions are caused by an overactive immune system, when the body reacts to a particular substance as though it were harmful.

Equine allergies primarily affect the skin and respiratory tract and are becoming increasingly common. There can be numerous symptoms and varying degrees of reactions, usually any of the following:

• Sneezing
• Respiratory problems
• Runny nose
• Coughing
• Watery, red or itchy eyes
• Skin rashes or hives

Environment

In the wild, horses can easily navigate a way to escape the irritating pollen. Today, they are often confined to smaller paddocks and are unable to escape irritations. Irritants also include insects and contact allergens in lotions that can cause problems.

To try and control these problems:

• Attempt to establish a clear breathing zone around the mouth and nose. Where possible, keep all foreign substances from entering the system
• Injections are another way of treating allergies, however treatment is usually lifelong and the impact may not be immediate
• Seek veterinary advice, they may be able to prescribe allergy specific drugs for your horse

Evidently there is a need to stimulate and control the immune system's response in order to effectively deal with how the body deals with the incoming threat of an allergy. Nutrition is a key part of this process. If managed effectively, this can go a long way to support the body. Supplements are a natural way of rebalancing the body, aiding in the body's natural defence system.

Global Herbs’ PolleneX is based on Malabar Nut leaves and extracts and offers soothing comfort from irritating airborne particles. Specifically designed to support the respiratory system, this highly effective herbal blend can be used all year round - for high pollen count in summer and dusty stables in winter. PolleneX offers a natural approach for respiratory worries and helps to soothe the nose, eyes and head. The supplement is suitable for all horses and ponies.

Protect the gut

Owners should also look to improve their horse's digestion, as the immune system resides primarily in the gut.

Boosting the good bacteria in this area can help neutralise any bad bacteria entering the body and keep horses healthy. If bad bacteria enters the gut, a horse is typically more sensitive and prone to changes in mood and higher levels of stress.

Brewers Yeast is an excellent source of trace minerals and is rich in protein, selenium and complex B vitamins, that combine to help the gut. Poor quality artificial probiotics are unlikely to make a difference but unique, powerful formulas like Gut Support can encourage healthy digestion, normal droppings and appetite, through supporting good gut health.