Question

Would you recommend EquiShure for a pony on lush grass pasture to help prevent laminitis? Will it help resolve diarrhea from pasture?

Answer

We would absolutely recommend EquiShure to help minimize risk of adverse reactions to dietary changes such as newly lush green pastures that may affect pH and stability of a horse’s hindgut!

EquiShure is a supplement that helps maintain a normal hindgut environment by minimizing harmful changes to the natural microbial population associated with rapid fermentation of excess starch and sugar, as observed with overconsumption of pasture and grain. This fermentation leads to a drop in pH, setting the stage for a condition called hindgut acidosis. A significant drop in pH causes bacteria to die and release endotoxins that may trigger laminitis.

Through proprietary encapsulation technology to protect it from digestion in the stomach and small intestine, EquiShure reaches the cecum and colon to buffer their contents and to minimize the effects of hindgut acidosis. Unlike EquiShure, most products on the market do not reach the hindgut.

EquiShure is research-proven to help maintain a healthy pH of the hindgut when horses are suddenly allowed to graze lush pasture. It supports an optimal hindgut environment and helps  to protect sensitive horses from shifts in microbial populations due to excess fructans, starches, or sugars reaching the hindgut. By balancing the pH in the hindgut and stabilizing the microbial population, EquiShure fosters optimal fiber digestion, increases water absorption, and potentially decreases diarrhea and free fecal water syndrome.

Additionally, please keep in mind that pasture grass is still high in calories and may not be fully appropriate for a pony for long periods, especially if the pony is an easy keeper.

Additional reading:

Laminitis, Insulin Resistance, Equine Metabolic Syndrome: Fast Facts

Feeding Suggestions for Laminitis-Prone Horses