Probiotics work in several ways:

• ferments all fibre in the hindgut - particularly important for horses since they absorb energy from fibre
• creates a favourable microbial environment in the intestine
• ensures adequate digestion of starches, the indigestion of which causes many types of colic
• limits the action of putrefactive microbes and disease-causing unfriendly bacteria, such as E. Coli, Streptococcus, and Salmonella
  
• discourages yeast overgrowths
  
• promotes gut motility and efficient gut movement
  
• coats the intestinal walls which protects harmful toxins/bacteria from being absorbed
  
• helps the absorption of minerals and the synthesis of B-vitamins, especially Biotin, B12, and Folic Acid
  
• treats diarrhea and/or inflammation of the gut - particularly useful in foals who have no microbial digestion before the age of 3 months - foals seen eating manure are likely seeking a supply of healthy bacteria
  prevents gastrointestinal infections

When To Use Probiotics

• After antibiotic use, chemical deworming, and any extensive drug therapy
  
• Any sign or history of appetite abnormalities, gas, bloating, indigestion, diarrhea, constipation, weight loss, and colic
  
• Difficulty making feed changes
  
• Replenish good bacteria in almost all older horses to ensure adequate digestion of nutrients

Marijke van de Water, B. Sc., DHMS
Homeopathic Practitioner
Equine Health Consultant
Ph. # 1-800-405-6643

Email: rivas@nowcom.ca
Web: www.rivasremedies.com