graze naturally and this form of feeding suits them best. It is also important for wellbeing. If a supplement is necessary, for example they can be good to promote joint health, it is important to use a good quality reputable brand. Always be aware of exactly what you are giving and why. “Over the counter supplements can contain substances that are banned in competition, or herbs that could interact adversely with medication. It’s best not to use these products without consulting your veterinarian, to check that they really are appropriate for your horse’s circumstances.” As Corley points out, there are many products on the market to promote joint health, but it is important to understand each product and which of the ingredients are necessary. Of the oral products available only Glucosamine, Chondroitin, MSM and Hyaluronic Acid are research-proven ingredients justified for use in the maintenance of healthy joints, but levels of these can vary in different products. Glucosamine is the most studied ingredient when it comes to joint care and studies suggest results are improved
when combined with Chondroitin. Glucosamine is an amino sugar used as a building block to form tendons, ligaments, cartilage and synovial fluid, for joint lubrication. It provides cartilage with its strength, structure and shock absorbing qualities. Chondroitin is a natural source
“Horses graze naturally and this form of feeding suits them best” of essential amino acids needed for cartilage synthesis and inhibiting enzymes that destroy cartilage molecules. This helps to revive elasticity. By restoring fluid to the cartilage, Chondroitin supports the repairing action of Glucosamine. MSM (Methylsulphonylmethane) is
essential for the health and elasticity of tendons, ligaments and muscles. The sulphur found within MSM is needed for the proper repair and maintenance of collagen, found within the connective tissue of healthy joints. Hyaluronic Acid (HA) attaches to collagen and elastin to form cartilage. HA not only helps keep the cartilage strong and flexible, but also helps increase supplies of joint-lubricating synovial fluid. Each of these compounds is a synergist, which means that when administered together they complement each other’s effects, providing a more effective joint supplement. Bettalife® PharmaQuin suggest that in order for a joint supplement to be effective, it should provide adequately high levels of the active compounds per kg of body weight. A 600Kg horse should be receiving a daily level of 10,000mg Glucosamine, 10,000mg MSM, 4,000mg Chondroitin and 100mg Hyaluronic Acid. Levels that are substantially lower may provide less benefit, and minimal levels are likely to be completely ineffective, especially in racehorses in training.
THE OWNER BREEDER 85