Tag Archives: red cal

Jim and Nelda asks this about providing Red Cal

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To: Dr. Dan

From:
Jim and Nelda

Message:
I ordered Red Cal.  However, with the large amount of horses, I
decided feeding free choice would be labor intensive, plus horses
share the same runnout.  So I put a scoop-the one from the feed
through package-in their morning grain.  My question, "Is this too
much for them to get that much everyday?"  They eat it with their
grain and the feed through product.

I know you recommend free choice, but that would mean an extra bucket
in each stall.  We have two water buckets and a feeder in each now and
the stalls are not 12×12.

I don't want to overfed the Red Cal and cause any problems for the horse.
Thank you.

Hi Jim,

This will be fine Jim and not too much. Only healthy, but free-choice they will eat
what they need when they know they need it. Could eat more or could eat less-
they just know. So if there was ever a way this would be preferred, but again
what you are doing is fine. Be sure to remove any blocks/rocks too- (just in case).

I appreciate you choosing to provide Red Cal for your horses and for your support.

Stay in touch and keep me posted on things.

Dr. Dan

RED CAL

Rita says: “Wonderful RED CAL”

Posted on by

I FINALLY started feeding Red Cal to my horses-free choice as well as some top dressing-this spring. I must admit I was reluctant to believe it would make a difference but now am humbled! I have a quarter horse gelding that could not sweat in the heat and humidity.

Last summer was hard especially hard on him even though I was giving him supplements and beer as recommended by others. He never did sweat last summer. Now that he has Red Cal daily as well as Bug Check, he has been sweating even when the heat index is over 100 degrees! All are on Bug Check as well and the flies appear less than last year. I am hopeful that with the Bug Check, the ticks will be kept at bay once we return to Arkansas now that the horses have a good loading dose.

Thank you!

Rita F.

Thank you for sharing Rita! Dr. Dan wanted us to pass along that it is OK to continue the loading dose if/when a little extra is still needed to get over the hump. Also remember that it is only healthy and more than "just" a bug product and is suggested year-round even just at the smallest amount for these other benefits (regardless of fighting bugs) and to sort of keep in the system and not have to start over next year.

Thanks again so much for taking the time to share about Red Cal!


http://www.thenaturalvet.net/RED-CAL_c_3.html

Samantha asks about iron and our RED CAL

Posted on by

From:
Samantha

Message:
What is the iron content of this salt?

Hi Samantha.

I appreciate you asking and for the record, I am aware of what is too-often said in regards to iron. You might enjoy this posting from a little over a year ago that I made here:

http://askdrdan.com/2011/02/20/nancy-asks-about-iron-for-horses-and-in-our-supplements/

With that shared, what trace amounts of iron Red Cal might contain, it is only "natures" iron- naturally occurring from the natural/organic ingredients and nothing added iron-wise.

And please know that it is just more than "just salt". Even at that, the salt content is provided by the natural pristine source of an ancient sea bed- not simply the likely-to-be-contaminated ocean. And even more, it provides trace minerals (probably some we are not even aware of… yet!) and also needed electrolytes while also including Diatomaceous Earth and ORGANIC Selenium and much more!

Tons and tons (and tons) of Red Cal shipped weekly through the years with only positive results.

I appreciate you asking about it and considering as a product to provide your horse(s) Samantha.

Hope the above was helpful. If you need anything else, do not hesitate to ask.

Dr. Dan

Listen To The New Audio On The RED CAL Page

Sandi asks about “rear-end” issue with 6 year old paint

Posted on by

From:
Sandi V.

Message:
Have 6 yr old paint, foaled once 3 yrs ago, pastured for last 3 yrs w
little grass and no supplemental feeding,came to me low weight.
I have had since Nov 2011 on great pastures and started feeding a
pellet/grain/beet pulp (Banks Mill) but was not gaining so vet
recommended Ultium by Purina still not much gain.  Fecal called for
Power Pac worming then she fattened quick.  She has had a runny butt
that I thought was from grass and being fed.  It seems to be getting
much worse now (end of May).  To the point that between hr legs is
starting to get raw.  I put diaper ointment on her after cleaning her
every day.  Have taken her off all supplemental feeding and she
continues to be 24/7 pastured because I read that too much protein
could cause this. Trying to let her digestive system settle down Have
also started pro-biotics paste. She seems to feel fine and looks great
except for her rear end which dribbles fluid anally.
Vet started her on a herbal gingseng also about a wk ago. I am trying
to ready her for sale and she looks great except need to get this rear
end issue solved

I would have to first suggest our feeding program (FeedForSuccess.com) especially if keeping. But if you want a starting point and don't want to go all in with the feeding program, I would at the very least recommend the #1 component- RED CAL provided free-choice and let eat all they know they need. I have a new and short audio on the RED CAL page if you would like to review. Also if not providing other components of program (Weight Check Oil and Just Add Oats supplelement, then I would recommend the targeted support provided form our Gut Check product– more than "just" a probiotic.

Since, you are not providing now I won't go into great detail, but I am not a fan of beet pulp (sucks nutrition from the gut), and of course not a fan of anything pelleted or commercial. Again see FeedForSuccess.com.

Here are some other direct links for you to help you browse through my recommendations:

http://www.thenaturalvet.net/RED-CAL_c_3.html

http://www.thenaturalvet.net/Gut-Check_c_15.html

Thanks for asking and keep me posted!

Dr. Dan

a Red Cal (and more) “conversation” with Jane

Posted on by

From:
Jane

Message:
Hi Dr. Dan,

I purchased 5 – 25 pounds of Red Cal for my two Arab mares about two
months ago.  I removed all salt and mineral blocks form their paddock
at that time and put about 2 inches of Red Cal in a bucket inside
their stalls.

The youngest mare licked it for a very sort time (2 seconds) and back
away.  The older mare will not lick it.  They have 24 hour access to
this.
I put some in the palm of my hand to get them to try it.  Again the
younger mare took a small taste and back away…the older mare
wouldn't try it.  I put about one Tablespoon full of Red Cal in with
their oats and Just Add Oats (off to one side but next to the
oats)….neither horse would eat the Red Cal  (they love the Just Add
Oats).

I have the same 2 inches of Red Cal still in the bucket after two
months time.

At present they don't get any salt or minerals (that aren't in Just
Add Oats).

Both horses use to lick the white…sodium choride block and
red…mineral block quite a bit.

Do you have any advise for me about how to get these girls to start
eatting their Red Cal?  We live in Texas and have a very hot summer
coming soon so I would think they need this.

Thank you,
Jane

Hi Jane.

Removing the blocks was the right thing and is one of only 2 reasons why they never eat- the other being too much potassium being available for some reason from surroundings… the "Mineral Wise, Salt Poor" article mentions this. Perfect Pastures is also a good read. Articles are linked via the Red Cal page at:
http://www.thenaturalvet.net/RED-CAL_c_3.html

With that said though, I've got to say that adding a tablespoon pretty much works everytime that I know of. So, do this for me- just add a "pinch" and gradually in crease… maybe a pinch for 3 days that a little more and so on until tablespoon. If it stops somewhere along the way of this gradual increase— go back to a smaller amount and wait a little loinger before the next gradual increase.

This always works with any of our supplements- though usually not needed with Red Cal.

Keep me posted! Thanks so much for your support and patience with this.

Dr. Dan

Hi Dr. Dan
 
I wanted to update you on my two Arab mares not wanting to eat the Red Cal. 
And, I do have a few more questions I am concerned about.
 
First of all, I have read the two articles you suggested …at present I don't know if excessive potassium is causing a problem with them not wanting the Red Cal.  The coastal and rye hay I have been feeding the horses is fertilized…this could be a problem.  We don't fertilize our paddocks,  just goat, sheep droppings and composted horse manure are left on.  (The articles were very helpful, educational and interesting by the way)
 
My girls at this time, are happily eating the (1 Tbs/day) Red Cal in with their oats, oil check, bug check and just add oats.
However, they are also now licking dirt to the extent that they leave small dished-out places on the ground.

 

 

 

I am concerned about a few things.

   
1st…by them licking dirt makes me think they need more Red Cal….but, I don't know how much they should be getting to be balanced on a daily basis when feeding it with their oats?  They still have free choice access to Red Cal in a bucket but, don't touch it.
    
2nd/3rd…we live in Texas so we do have selenium in our soil…. Two concerns I have with this are….. that the Red Cal contains selenium ….even though they may need more salts…will they be getting to much selenium which I have read can become toxic if to much is taken in?…..and the youngest mare (5 yr old) is and easy keeper who loves to eat constantly and has just gotten over her 1st case of laminitus (trying to not have another event of that).    Her body score on a scale of 10 was about a 8-9 last year…now about 6-7, due to diet and exercise changes.  Should the younger mare be getting more magnesium? 
 
It's difficult to know if I am giving them the balance they need.
 
A comment on the Bug Check and Finally Something That Works…it took about six weeks before I felt that these were making a difference.  I see neighbors horses and cows having a lot of trouble this year with flies but ours are only having to swat their tails once in a while.  Last year before using these my horses had a lot of bites.  This year so far I am not finding hardly any bumps from insect bites.  I feel real good about using these two products.
 
Thank you for your help,

Jane

Hi Jane.

Thanks for the updates and for sharing about Bug Check. Sounds like you're using Bug Check year-round and that's a good thing and will help in results like you are seeing— as you know it's more than "just" a bug product and only healthy to provide year-round and keep in the system. Thanks again for sharing!

I'm glad you liked the articles. I just added a short audio to the Red Cal page of the website that you can listen to also when you have a few minutes. You could maybe provide an extra tablespoon a day but I would much more than that really and of course make sure they have plenty of water. Maybe there's still remnants of the old block around or even leached into the soil- just something else to consider. Just be sure to keep RED CAL available free-choice along with what you are top dressing– so they can eat the extra when they need it.

Rest assured that the selenium used in our products is organic and is not the same as what can cause harm. Ours- they can't get too much of.

Also, I would consider the Hi-Mag version of the Red Cal for the challenge you mentioned the next time you order.

Hope this helps.

Here's the direct link to the RED CAL page for the audio (will start automatically) Thanks Jane!

http://www.thenaturalvet.net/RED-CAL_c_3.html


Dr Dan  :)
 
I am relieved to know I don't have to be concerned about the amount of selenium.  The correct amount would be very difficult to determine.   I will increase their Red Cal as you suggested…will keep hoping they will eventually help themselves to it free choice.

Thank you for your cautioning me to provide ample water, and yes :) I am mindful about their water. 

The young mare does drink more than the older girl (but not excessive)…I monitor the amount of water that they drink every day and have clean fresh water for them daily…this and taking notice of their urine and stools helps me to be alerted if something is off with either of them.  I like to give water in the morning (twice the amount of water they will drink in a day) and check the level in the afternoon and evening.
 
I believe your products are making positive changes in my horses.  :)

The 5 yr old mare has never before been able to grow out her mane more than half of what her sire and damns is.  It would break off at a particular length about one half that of her parents.  I am seeing her mane getting longer now.  Also her damns mane is darker with more color (she chestnut in color).

The 5 year old also use to have strange ruffed-up looking places of hair on her thighs…this is not typical of a pure breed Arabian who should have short, soft, smooth hair.  My Vet didn't have an explanation for this.  Well, they are gone now!….she had these for her whole life.  My guess is that the condition could have been a mild allergic reaction..like hives..making the hair stick out.  She is also more energetic but at the same time both girls are calmer.  Sure some of the more emotional collection is due to me playing with them everyday but, it is more than that.  I believe getting them off of pelleted feeds, about three months ago, and using Just Add Oats, Oil Check and Bug Check have made the difference.  Now that they are on Red Cal daily I'm looking forward to continued signs of health.

Noticed my neighbors cows just 20 feet from my horses, pestered by flys and my girls only had a few on them  (5 or 6 each)…and some of the flys behaved as if they couldn't find a place to land…meaning to me that they are being repelled.  Finally Something That Works truly does.

Well, I just had to say all that.
I will keep all your suggestion in mind and Thank you ever so much…I feel I am finally on the right track in helping to give my girls a happy, healthy life.

Warmest Regards………Jane

Thank You Again Jane!

Dr. Dan



 

 





 


 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Natasha asks about selenium for her horses…

Posted on by

From:
Natasha

Message:
Hello Dr. Dan
I live in a selenium deficient area of the country.  All my hay is
local and my horses graze on selenuim deficient grasses.  My horses
are already on your Red Cal and Bug Check.  Its truely great stuff!!
One of my horses is recovering from EPM and has some muscle wasting.
My vet recommended supplementing all my horses with Vit E and
Selenium.  I have heard of horses in my area with muscle issues due to
selenium deficiencies.  What is the best way to add selenium in a
Natural Healthy way?  They do get a hand full of grain with cocosoy
oil and your bug check only 1x a day. And of course free choice red
cal.    Thank you for all your great advice.

Hello Natasha, Great News— you are already providing selenium when you provide Red Cal and Bug Check, and you should be pleased to know that it's not junk selenium, but rather high-quality organic selenium that they can't get too much of!

As far as supplementing Vitamin E (and much more)— you can cover that with the "Just Add Oats", that while I use and suggest oats, it will make any grain mix complete. Then, if I may suggest our high-quality gmo-free Weight Check Oil you are getting close to being on board 100% with my feeding program! :-)

Again as far as our organic selenium, I use it in all the products and again you can't get too much of it.

Thanks for asking and for your support Natasha

TheNaturalVet.net
FeedForSuccess.com

Terri asks about her Quarter Horse Mare’s hooves

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From:
Terri

Message:
Hello Dr Dan,
I recently bought an 11 year old Quarter Horse Mare. The farrier said
her hooves are soft and the 2 front ones are cracked/chipped.  He said
they don't need moister. I'm currently giving my mare 1 scoop per day
of Hoof Check. Should I also be using hoof oil, or grape seed hoof
oinment? If so, how much and how often should I put it on her hooves?
Thanks so much!
Sincerely,
Terri

Hi Terri,

Hoof Check will be great and the Hoof Check conditioner topically will help. Give it all a little time and you will have stronger healthier hooves…. it will take 6 months to a year for the hoof to newly grow so hang in there.

If not tried before/already- As much of the feeding program that you would consider implementing would only make the results even better. I believe working from the inside-out helps more than anything with so many of the challenges we face… ourselves and of course, our companions. But with that said, at least consider the (nature's) Red Cal (much more than just salt/minerals) along with what you are already providing. Remove the blocks/rocks!

Thanks for asking and for your continued support. Keep me posted!

Dr. Dan
 

IPO= Incredible Product Offering tremendous benefits! (new audio)

Posted on by

IPO = Incredible Product Offering Tremendous Benefits Beyond Just What It Seems On The Surface!
( Not Facebook! :-) )

RED CAL
I believe that RED CAL is the single most important investment that you can make for the health and wellness of your horse!

And like all of our products, it too, is multi-beneficial.

And in the case of RED CAL, it’s more than “just” a salt, mineral and electrolyte product.

I want to bring your attention to a new short audio I put together that is available right on the RED CAL page of our website. The audio will explain more about and will guide you through benefiting from our (nature’s) RED CAL.

I know you’re going to enjoy this audio as I discuss what sets RED CAL apart from other products that you might think are comparable. I also discuss the process of providing RED CAL and making sure your horses (donkeys, cattle, sheep, goats and more too!) receive these prized ingredients.

If you’re not already receiving a portion of the tons of RED CAL we ship every month- I hope you will consider this proactive healthy investment today.

Don’t miss the new audio: Click Here and remember, turn up your speakers!

I appreciate you!
Dr. Dan Moore (DVM)

No Horse Should Go Without RED CAL!

Mineral Wise Salt Poor ArticleThe RED CAL supplement is a formulation and combination of calcium, micro-nutrients and herbs to help keep your horse healthy. RED CAL is one of the components of Dr. Dan’s “Feed For Success” program.



It is fed FREE CHOICE, so its easy. Although you let them eat all they want, its economical too!



Perfect pastures Article*Typically a 25 lb bag will last from 100-200 days for one horse but will vary depending upon the individual needs. Buying our bulk packages will make your per-day, per-horse investment even less!



Did you know that salt & mineral content and quality varies greatly?



Unlike most, RED-CAL is not bleached, kiln dried, heated, or altered with chemicals or pollutants, its balanced by nature, not by man!



The minerals utilized are the finest available, with detail especially to purity and absorption. You can expect stronger bones, muscles, ligaments and better performance regardless of discipline. We believe this is our finest product yet developed and your horse will prove it. It is OK to use along with any of our other products and for any horse, any age. Use year-round, all-they-want, all-the-time and remove all blocks and rocks for best results.



Rocks And/Or Blocks Are Useless!”

Blocks and Rocks Are Useless!Did you know that most commercial salt and minerals are either “man made” or some other industry’s waste product? Unlike these, ours is not bleached, kiln dried, heated, or altered with chemicals or pollutants; it’s balanced by nature not by man! Did you know that blocks for horse, and others for that matter, are almost useless and potentially dangerous!



They just can’t get what they need, when they need it, fast enough by trying to lick or chew from a block! When the weather changes sudden imbalances in the grass can occur. Horses must be able to get what they need when they need it! Period!



RED CAL is fed free-choice and loose, not in a block form. Just hang a bucket on a fence post and pour a little in it. Rain does not even diminish effectiveness.

from Gary Lane…

Gary LaneToday’s horses living in the information age will require better mineral care than ever. “Why?” Our modern day farming practices along with the age of our pastern fields most certainly have been depleted of natural minerals over the years, mostly because of fertilize abuse.

Now let me add one more comment to the mix:
A horse kept in a stall or pasture field also needs to drink plenty of clean water.

Why Red Cal Works Article- Click HereRed Cal is a great free supplement choice I use not only for good mineral quality for horses, but the added insurance of Red Cal natural balance requires the horse to drink plenty of water.

Our gaited horses were developed for work, pleasure and transportation.

Let Red Cal work for you to ensure not only fine quality of mineral supplements, but the added bonus that your horse will drink plenty of fresh water.

 

Folks, if you don’t consider any other portion of our feeding program at this time, at the very least you should provide RED CAL for your horses.”
Dr. Dan Signature

 

Lizbeth asks a feeding question for her Andulusian

Posted on by
Reply

I have a 7 year old Andulusian I imported from Spain in April who does dressage. He had been on oats in Spain so I continued with crimped oats here- and lots of hay and over the summer added weight check oil (2 oz. 2 times a day)and have recently added Just Add Oats as well. Before he was on crimped oats but now is on regular oats.

He also has a Himalayan salt lick always in his stall which I replace regularly as he seems to use it a lot. Over the summer he was in turnout with grass- though lost weight which is why I added the oil. Then he was fine. I've just moved barns and his turnout does not have grass and he has lost weight again despite the increased oil. He gets 2 quarts of oats a day.

Any suggestions on anything different I should do.

Hello Lizbeth,


The very first thing I'm going to ask you to consider is getting rid of that salt lick
and start providing RED CAL free-choice 24/7/365 as best you can in this environment.
It is OK to add a tablespoon to what you're feeding each day if necessary, but provided free-choice they
will eat what they need on their own.

Of the 3 components of my feeding "program"… RED CAL is the single most important product
and the one I always want folks to consider if they won't consider anything else. I've got a salt block
video and much much more- including a Salt Mineral article at the "What to Feed" link below if you would
review this if not done so already.

I would like to see what this small move would accomplish as it has for so many through the years.

For the immediate— I would provide more Hay and more oil. But again- the intended results
are all going to better achieved if allowed to work in unison as part of the program and switching
to RED CAL would be a major step and when able the "Just Add Oats supplement.

Please keep me posted and I'm glad you asked now when you did.

Thanks,

Dr. Dan

Check out these helpful links:

The Natural Horse Vet Magazine: http://www.DrDanMag.com

What To Feed Your Horse? http://www.WhatToFeedYourHorse.com

Dr. Dan's Library: http://www.DrDanLibrary.com

The Natural Vet On The Net: http://TheNaturalVet.net

Terry asked this in regards to feeding foal after weaning…

Posted on by
Reply

Dr. Dan…

I sent my mare and her foal out for a couple of months during an illness I had. I just got the foal back, when she left she looked beautiful, nice coat, very active, when she came back 2 days ago she looked like she was already growing a winter coat, very quite, But not skinny, she did this before but seems more so now, she reaches around and is biteing her sides, rubbing her face on her front legs, taking her back legs and scratching at her face. I feel or see nothing on her, no hives, bugs, flies? I found out the people weaned her at 3 1/2 months, put her in a dry lot with goats, and not even sure if she got anything but hay. I started her back on ________, ________ & __________, (she was on that with her nursing till she left here).

I put her out on pasture, not the best since end of summer fescue, but she ate almost non stop 1st 36 hours. Her poop looked small and formed at first, now it's plumped up, shinny and well formed. I have one tube of just add oats, but don't want to use that with the Mare & Foal, she is on free choice Red Cal. I wormed her with safeguard ( know you don't like but I didn't know what she had been exposed to and my horse tested negative on stool check at vet.)I did it the first 2 days, not sure if If I should do a full 5 days. I read about bug check,

I have my other horse on garlic and recently read on Horse.com they listed one of the things toxic to horses was garlic & onion? So I know that is a lot of info, but the foals nutrition has def. been lacking.

Thank you.
Terry

Hi Terry,

I have to disagree and say garlic is not toxic regardless of what others have put out there.

I would never give a foal 5 days of a chemical dewormer, but it should have directions on the label as to ages etc.

As you are already familiar and providing Red Cal/ JAO now to your horses you probably knew I would suggest the
feeding program ;-)

I didn't see any mention of Weight Check Oil, but I would especially provide it for this horse. Just Add Oats
is ok too. (your email said "tube" of JAO, but I'm sure you meant "tub"- right?)

It may be mites causing the itch so a good bath with a pyrethrin-based shampoo might help too.

 

Certainly our Bug Check for the skin (not for worms or mites)  just skin in general… like I say, Bug Check is much more than just a "bug' product and I recommend it for all- for everyday use year-round.

Hope this helps— do look for those better directions about the chemical dewormer.

Thanks For Asking!

Dr. Dan

Check out these helpful links:

The Natural Horse Vet Magazine: http://www.DrDanMag.com

What To Feed Your Horse? http://www.WhatToFeedYourHorse.com

Dr. Dan's Library: http://www.DrDanLibrary.com

The Natural Vet On The Net: http://TheNaturalVet.net

Thank you for your time to answer my questions, the vet came today to give the weanling her first shots, he thought her coat and weight looked good, thought maybe she had "a little allergies" why she was scratching, but "no signs". He told me not to worm her anymore that was enough, so my plan is to get the Weight check oil, and Bug check, and continue with tthe Mare & Foal for a little longer, I'll hold on to the Tub of JAO and switch her to the oats in a couple of months. That way I can see if the oil and Bug check make a difference.

Thanks again
Terry

Thanks for the update Terry. Please keep an eye on those suspected allergies.
You know me and I hate to tell you, but if there are allergies, the vaccinations "may"
make worse. Just watch in case and we will hope not.

Thanks again. Keep me posted!

Dr. Dan

 

Eileen asks about her horse “nibbling” on woodwork…

Posted on by
Reply

Hi- My 8 yr old Connemara just started nibbling on some stall woodwork. never done it before. Currently eating ________ (handful) 2x day and 1st cut hay. Turned out all day w/ ok( not lush- rocky) grazing. She's been in a new barn for 3 weeks- seems to really like it. Any suggestions? Mineral deficiency?

Thanks Eileen

Hi Eileen,

They are for sure trying to get something that they're not getting from their current diet.

There are a couple of links I hope you will review:

www.DrDanLibrary.com actually has has an audio about Chewing/Cribbing and
there is also a short 4 minute video about Cribbing shown at one time on RFD-TV.

And please review the feeding program: www.WhatToFeedYourHorse.com
and the components that go together in it. Do know that I am generally
not a fan of commercial feed.

One of the components of the program I for sure recommend is our natural
salt/mineral supplement called RED CAL- in fact I think no horse should be
without it! It is fed free-choice all-they-want-all-the-time. You didn't mention
rocks/blocks but I hope they're not in use— I don't like them at all.

So, if you don't consider any other portion of our program or any other
products- I do hope you will provide RED CAL in lieu of rocks/blocks or other
salt/mineral/electrolyte sources.

Keep me posted and Thanks for asking Eileen!

Check out these helpful links:

The Natural Horse Vet Magazine: http://www.DrDanMag.com

What To Feed Your Horse? http://www.WhatToFeedYourHorse.com

Dr. Dan's Library: http://www.DrDanLibrary.com

The Natural Vet On The Net: http://TheNaturalVet.net

Veronica asks/says: “Complicated Horse who Needs You”

Posted on by
Reply

Dear Dr. Dan,

I have a Appaloosa/Warmblood cross who is currently on your Just Add Oats and RedCal,  He is also on __________ and _________ and gets barley instead of oats.  Here is my problem, anytime I try to give him something to increase his energy it goes right to his brain and not his muscles.  If he eats oats, sugar, high protein, high magnesium, beetpulp and a few other things that I have tried he get supper skiddish.  He is not overweight and doesn't have any fat pockets just lacks energy.  Can you give me any advice?

Sincerely,  
Veronica

Hi Veronica,

You mentioned RED CAL and JAO but I didn't see mention of our Weight Check Oil being provided which is one of the 3 supplements suggested as part of the "Feed For Success" program/diet. (a.k.a. www.WhatToFeedYourHorse.com )

The Weight Check Oil will deliver the type of energy you are seeking for this horse—but of course, providing Oats instead of barley are going to deliver the optimum results as so many others have. I should also add-just to be sure- that the RED CAL should be provided free-choice so they have all they want all the time.No rocks/blocks around at all!

You won't need the _____________ and _____________ and Pleeeassse, NO beet pulp! (IMHO)
see "Why Not To Feed Beet Pulp": http://askdrdan.com/2010/01/29/beet-pulp-article-for-reference/

I really think the above will help you to see a new horse.

I appreciate you asking and giving me a chance to "weigh-in". Do keep me posted Veronica

Dr. Dan

Check out these helpful links:

The Natural Horse Vet Magazine: http://www.DrDanMag.com

What To Feed Your Horse? http://www.WhatToFeedYourHorse.com

Dr. Dan's Library: http://www.DrDanLibrary.com

The Natural Vet On The Net: http://TheNaturalVet.net

Bonnie asks about liver detox- horse / bute

Posted on by
Reply

Do you have a liver detox for a horse that has had to have lots of Bute?
-Bonnie

Hello Bonnie…

Our RED CAL product is not only our recommended "natural" salt/mineral/electrolyte supplement-
(NO Blocks/Rocks!!!) but an excellent liver "detox-inator" due to its Montmorrilionite Clay ingredeint
In fact we also have a people product called REDOXX that contains it as well- and like RED CAL,
it is multi-beneficial— helping keep the liver clean and so much more.

Both are products that no horse or person should be without!

See: What To Feed Your Horse? http://www.WhatToFeedYourHorse.com and
http://REDOXXusa.com/npv

Also for your horse, I suggest our Joint Check product. You see while it is an excellent "Joint"
product, it also is loaded with antioxidants that are going to support the body's detoxing and
provide other healthy support.

Thanks for asking Bonnie!

Dr. Dan

Check out these helpful links:

The Natural Horse Vet Magazine: http://www.DrDanMag.com

What To Feed Your Horse? http://www.WhatToFeedYourHorse.com

Dr. Dan's Library: http://www.DrDanLibrary.com

The Natural Vet On The Net: http://TheNaturalVet.net

 

Deanna asks about horse not sweating enough with exercise…

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Dr. Dan, Our 6 y/o halflinger pony is having a little bit of trouble with not sweating enough with exercise.  He is already on JAO/Red Cal/WCO/Bug Check every day and we are only riding him at dawn or the coolest part of the day.  Aside from that, our regular vet suggested One AC to help him sweat better.

Can you recommend a natural alternative to the One AC for anhidrosis?  As always, thanks for your advice!  Deanna

Hi Deanna,

I'm sure you already are—- but be sure RED CAL is available free-choice at all times. Now, as with the competition horses etc. I do suggest our "HYDRAID" supplement that will definitely make them drink more water and help with this.

keep me posted and thanks for asking!
 

Hydraid - 4 lb

Adds In Hydration Plus Fortified with Vitamins, Minerals, Direct Fed Microbials
Feed alone or top dress onto feed 1 tablespoon. Use before, during and after events (race, show, endurance)

Click Here For Full Hydraid Label

 

Amy asks this question for her older, skinny, rescued horse…

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I am looking for suggestions on what would be best for my “old guy”.  He is 27+ yrs old.  I rescued him 10 months ago just days before he would have starved to death.  He was covered with rain rot too.  We are trying to put weight on him, he is doing much better conditioning wise although he is still way underweight.  To add to it, he was recently kicked (once or twice) in the shoulder and is not weight bearing on it right now.  He also battles hoof issues/abscesses.  I am currently feeding him Purina Sr feed and soaked beet pulp shreds.  For his swollen shoulder he is getting banamine, rubbed down with ThermaFlex and I just bought him some boswellia for the swelling.

Hello Amy.

First let me commend you for taking this horse in. I do hope he gets better.

My feeding program that you can see more about at:
http://www.WhatToFeedYourHorse.com  is not only the foundation to build
upon for success but is always my first suggestion.

I prefer Oats and supplement with our Just Add Oats (vitamins,minerals,probiotics)— then our RED CAL fed free-choice salt mineral product—NO Blocks or Rocks- not at all! The third component is our "Weight Check" Oil that works to either put weight on or take off- whichever is needed. The oil is GMO-Free and is the actual oil of the soybean and verified by me to be GMO-FREE.

If you look at the above site you will see that I never recommend any commercial feed.

I also do not like Beet Pulp at all- sucks the nutrition right out of the gut.
Within these posts you will see info and an article on "Why Not To Feed Beet Pulp"
http://askdrdan.com/?s=beet+pulp

So many issues and even those with hooves in my opinion should be addressed working
from the inside-out to get rid of and keep junk out of the body— beginning
with proper nutrition as outlined above and good supplementation. Our Joint Check
product is a great product as it really is more than just a "joint-type" product as it contains
the antioxidants (just as in our Health Check) needed to help support this cleansing.
It's a combo product that i highly recommend for an older horse. I of course also offer
a Hoof Check product to use to gain control of hoof issues if needed.

Boswellia is a fine ingredient to add support with and another homeopathic ingredient
that may help in that same regard is Arnica Montana.

Many older horses have done better with the above suggestions. Doing a search on
my archived question/answer site I have found some posts from other owners
with older horses and some that have shared their results as well. You can see them
here: http://askdrdan.com/?s=older

I do hope this information helps you on the decisions you need to make for your horse.

I appreciate you asking and giving me the opportunity to share. Please keep me
posted.

 

 

Pam asks about possible PSSM horse…

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Recently on Facebook…

Can you give me any advice on a PSSM horse that is on your feed program for one year'
thanks .. Pam

Hi Pam. Is this something recently diagnosed? Any other info would be helpful.
 

No she has not officially been diagnosed, I almost lost her a couple years ago when a vet said she was EPM and to just let her die.

So I had her tested and found to be negative EPM

Then i brought her home and started checking around and she had all the symptoms of pssm so I put her on 4 cups rice bran and two cups corn oil with beet pulp, and she got a lot better then I found your products and she is on the program and is doing great, but she does get crampy in her hind gut and she is hard to ride due to not wanting to move.

I fed he immune support by silver lining and now she is "cinchy" again right under the girth area, she almost falls down if i chinch her up snugly ,

I have to do it fairly loose at first walk then make it tighter. been reading a lot about the PSSM horses and that they now have test dna for type one but not two and i dont want to do the muscle biopsy.

Often i think she is about to colic and it seems if i get some electrolytes in her and she drinks she comes right out of it.

What i notice is she gets muscle spasms in her abdomen.

She looks great on your products—- before them she was so skinny i thought she was going to die. now she is a bit fat.

The rice bran and oil did get the weight on but i was worried she would founder with so much.

Now i feed her 1/2 # oats soaked overnight in water then add your stuff — all three and then some electrolytes during hot weather.

She gets alfalfa am and pm and she gets bermuda noon and orchard grass pm.

I am thinking of cutting the alfalfa back and more orchard grass.

Hope i did not bore you to death and i am just learning about all this thanks for any help.

My suggestions based on what you have said here would be to definitely cut out the alfalfa..not needed. You mention "adding electrolytes" but if you are providing RED CAL free-choice all the time so that it is available to them to eat what they need when they need it— there is no better source of electrolytes IMO, this is an important part of the program or even regardless if one is on the "program".

Also, I do not ever suggest rice bran. It may pull calcium out of the bones .. just provide more Weight Check Oil than the recommended maintenance amount- (which won't put on weight and will help lose if needed too) if need extra weight ..

I've stated often and ity has been my opinion for a long time that Beet Pulp is no good to say the least. Again, in my opinion it just sucks nutrition right out of the gut…

I would provide our Health Check for detox of liver etc and for ideal immune support our Aller Check supplement.

I'm glad that you are enjoying the results from where you were before and hope you'll consider my suggestions for further support. Again, be sure RED CAL is provided free-choice all the time.

Thanks for asking- keep me posted.

Reference: http://www.FeedForSuccess.?com/
 

I will get the RED CAL in there free-choice and see what happens, She did do a whole bucket of Health Check 6 months ago we finished it, is that something she should have all the time? thank you for answering my questions….pam
 

Health Check all the time for the antioxidants etc. is a support item that yes I would recommend all the time. The feeding program is the foundation and then Health or Joint Check (Joint has what Health has but has added ingredients for joint support— making it more than just a joint product) and Bug Check are the next support products I recommend for a basic daily regimen. Thanks for asking!
 

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Janice asks about her horse’s sweating in extreme heat

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Hi Doc,

I have a 20 yr old quarterhorse gelding who on very hot days sweats tremendously. I was wondering what if anything you can recommend giving him in the summer or on extremely hot days. Any suggestions? He is on (our) Bug Check and Histall daily. Any thoughts?

Thanks,
Jan C.

I presume histall is an antihistamine.. I would instead suggest our Aller Check supplement as it is not a drug. I would also highly suggest our Red Cal free-choice supplement... all he can eat all the time.

See this recent email sent out by us:
CLICK HERE

Thanks for asking!
 

Sorry  to bother you again but is the Red Cal given to the horse via his food or in his water??
Jan C.
 

Red Cal is fed "fee-choice" just put it in a bucket and hang on a post etc.

Also from the label:
When first introduced, it is not unusual for animals to consume higher amounts. Always provide a good source of water. Rain and weather does not diminish effectiveness. Pour excess water off and continue feeding. For best results remove other forms of salt and salt/mineral blocks.

Hope this helps and thanks for considering RED CAL and of course, thanks for asking!

Beth with questions about our RED CAL (salt/mineral replacement)

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I was trying to compare __________ mineral bag salt with your RED CAL bag salt.  What's the reason for the price difference.  I am trying to decide if I should change to your line of products so I'm doing a lot of comparisons.  Also comparing the Joint and Hoof supplements to the ________________ ones I am currently using.  

Thanks,

Beth

Hi Beth,

There is nothing like our RED CAL and thousands have found this to be true through the years. I don't know how deep you've ventured into our sites and other online information but the www.WhatToFeedYourHorse.com is a good place to start especially if considering RED CAL. The "Salt Wise, Mineral Poor" and "Perfect Pastures" articles that are linked to from the WhatToFeed link as well as being in the Mag and Library has valuable info. Plus there's videos and audios.

I don't know about the cheaper product, but RED CAL is not bleached, kiln dried, heated, or altered with chemicals or pollutants like a lot of man made products. RED CAL is organic sea salt, colloidal trace minerals, calcium and herbs. It is balanced by nature, not by man. The pristine sea slat comes from the dessert that was once the ocean millions of years ago, the micro-nutrients are naturally chelated. I always say and believe that there's probably micro-nutrients that haven't even been discovered yet! I am so proud of this product and what it has meant to so many that provide it free-choice to their animals so they have all-they-want (need) all-the-time.

If considering RED CAL be sure to check out our new Field Formula version of BUG CHECK that also contains RED CAL and so much more natural goodness. Depending on what your desired feed is, this may be of interest to you. www.BuyBugCheck.com has this info.

I'm equally proud of all of our products including those you mention. They are just not me-too products, rather products that I put a lot of heart, soul and knowledge into. For this reason, I am comfortable in saying "Nothing else like it" for any of our products. If you give us a try I know you will see this too.

I hope this helps with your decisions. I appreciate you considering us when looking at what can be better for your horses.

Thanks for asking!

Throw Away All Salt and Mineral Blocks…
Make Red Cal Available Free Choice At All Times!

Our Red Cal supplement is a formulation and combination of calcium, micronutrients and herbs to help keep your horse healthy. It is FREE CHOICE, so it’s easy. And although you let them eat all they want, it’s economical too! Typically a 25 lb bag will last from 100 – 200 days for one horse but will vary depending upon the individual needs.

Did you know that salt & mineral quality varies greatly? Unlike most, RED-CAL™ is not bleached, kiln dried, heated, or altered with chemicals or pollutants, it’s balanced by nature, not by man.

The minerals utilized are the finest available, with detail especially to purity and absorption.

You can expect stronger bones, muscles, ligaments and better performance regardless of discipline. We believe this is our finest product yet developed and your horse will prove it. It is OK to use along with any of our other products and for any horse, any age. Use year round for best results.

Additional Info: When first introduced, it is not unusual for animals to consume higher amounts. Always provide a good source of water. Rain and weather does not diminish effectiveness.]Pour excess water off and continue feeding. For best results remove other forms of salt and salt/mineral blocks. One heaping tablespoon equals approximately 1 ounce. One scoop equals 2 oz. (scoop not provided in 25 lb size).

GUARANTEED ANALYSIS:
Calcuim, Min. 13.5%
Calcium, Max. 15.5%
Phosphorus, Min. 0.10%
Organic Natural Sea Salt, Min. 38%
Organic Natural Sea Salt, Max. 41%
Zinc, Min. 25 ppm
 
INGREDIENTS: Organic Natural Sea Salt, Ground Dried Grape & Seed Pomace, Calcium Carbonate, Yeast Culture, Diatomaceous Earth, Garlic, Montmorillonite, Thiamine Mononitrate, Selenium Yeast Culture, Distillers Grain, Mineral Oil.

CONTAINS NO ADDED POTASSIUM OR COPPER

Hi-MAG FORMULA ALSO AVAILABLE! Same RED CAL formula but with 6% added magnesium. This formula is especially great for fat, overweight, "cresty neck" easy keepers, but also wonderful for any horse.

Available: 25 LB. Bag. (Free-Choice)

-Order Red-Cal Here-

 

Lois asks me about Hoof Cracks…

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Hi Dr.Dan , my horse has some awful cracks in his hooves and they are getting worse , they go up the hoof wall about half way, and I have him on biotin and using apple cider vinegar to get the bacteria out .

What else can i be doing ??
Lois

Hi Lois,

Best to work from the "inside-out" with hoof situations.

Personally, I don't like apple cider as it changes PH too much AND truth is that treating topical is not going to be an overall solution anyway though if prefferred,  our Grape Balm Hoof Healer products work well and is a start in the right direction. I'll also say that  biotin,  by itself, is s also useless. I would get this horse on our Hoof Check supplement asap and our Red Cal free-choice supplement.

Thanks For Asking! Keep me posted.

what Sherry asks AND SAYS about RED CAL…

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Hello Dr. Dan:

A friend recommended the Red Cal supplement to me for my three horses and one pony. No one would touch it. She said not to worry… just keep it out for them "free choice". She said she sees the horses go after it when there is a big weather change.

Voila. That is what happened. When a storm is blowing in, the horses tear into their buckets of Red Cal.

Is there an explanation for this behavior? I'm going to keep using it. It's the ONLY salt product any of my horses will touch at all.

Thank you.

Absolutely.! The article called "Perfect Pastures"  and the one on "Salt and Minerals" that is available in the magazine and other links http://WhatToFeedYourHorse.com and http://DrDanLibrary.com (as referenced below) explains the issue with potassium and why it is so important. Thanks for sharing and asking!

Dr Dan

Perfect pastures Article- PDF

I plan to contact the local TV station weather forecaster and tell him to come monitor the horse's RC buckets.  ;-)
 
I keep reading magazine articles that talk about forcing 2 oz per day of plain salt on horses…mine simply do not want that much salt no matter what the form.  I feel a little better knowing that they have something there they they will take when they need it.

Thank you Dr. Dan,
Sherry

Donna shares about our feeding program and has a couple of questions…

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I have been having great success feeding my 2 horses your program.

We have been on it going on 6 months but I am uncertain about 2 things and think about them every day…

1. My horses love whole oats but I understand they cannot digest the whole oat so alot of it goes to waste. What are your thoughts on this..should I be feeding them crimped oats or which type would be better.

2. My QH does not seem to eat the Red Cell so I am feeding him it every other day in hopes he will start eating it on his own. (he never used to eat salt either and I always have had to add it to his feed) The Red Cal I have out..i have a bucket hanging in each horses stall. I would like to put it in the arena/pasture area but sometimes theres alot of dust when they get to running around. I dont really want dirt getting into the red cell..what is the best way to free feed this? And if it rains in it..do you just pour the water off and will whats left be ok?

Thanks for a great product..my horses really shine, feel good yet seem to be more calm and think things through better.

Donna

Thanks so much for sharing Donna!

Actually oats are very digestable- crimped or whole.

Crimped are 6% more digestable nut once the hull is cracked they start going rancid so whole are better unless the crimpwd are only a few weeks old

As for Red Cal…  rain doesn't hurt at all. Just tip the bucket and pour off the rain. Never even have to wash the bucket. Just keep adding fresh. I, myself only put an Inch or so in the bucket though. I just hang with a hay string on a fence post. Some eat more than others . The key is to do as you do now… always keep it available regardless!

Thanks again for sharing your results and thoughts and thanks for asking these questions.

Dr Dan

 

answering Karen’s questions about her 10 year old mustang’s allergies…

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Dr. Dan, I have a 10 year old Mustang who is allergic to the tiny bitting flies. He rubs out his mane, tail and looses fur on his face and chest. He was new to us last year in the early summer so we had no opportunity to do anything preventative for him. He was a mess and miserable. He is on Just Add Oats and Weight Check and he also gets free feed Red Cal and salt blocks. What else can we do? Bug sprays don't work and Spot On did nothing.

Any helpful information would be very much appreciated.

Thanks, Karen W.

First get did of the salt blocks as they are counter productive to everything. Just be sure Red Cal is provided "free-choice" so they can eat all that they need when they need it..

I would also start on our Bug Check asap at 2 scoops daily. When you see results you can cut back some, but even if you have to give more it will only be healthy.  See how that does. You may need to add Health Check to help support detoxing all past "junk" in the system.  The Aller Check would also support the immune system. Do this and expect a new horse. 

Also topically our "Finally Something That Works" spray will help the skin. It doesn't "kill" flys but helps keep off and helps the skin. Also on any skin lesions the Grape Balm ointment is helpful to say the least.

Thanks for asking Karen.