ALLEGAN, MI (WWMT TV) -- MARCH 27, 2012 -- The mild, relatively snow-free winter in southwestern Michigan could contribute to a condition known as sand colic in horses.
The Kalamazoo Gazette reports (http://bit.ly/As66Fp) the lack of snow cover has resulted in horses ingesting extra sand as they feed. Normally, snow cover up to four months of the year allows horses to rid their bodies of the sand swallowed at other times.
Sand covers the ground in much of Allegan County and other areas bordering Lake Michigan.
The Michigan State University Extension warns of the increased risk. Signs of sand colic include sluggishness, weight loss and diarrhea.
Experts say owners should avoid grazing horses on sparse pasture, keeping a good mat of grass between the horse and the ground. They also should consider routinely using a laxative known as psyllium.
Recent Comments
I really found this interesting!
Kim Brown | Digging Out
Thank you for posting this - and yes that is Miss Aerial Painted Pants - my famous filly who does t...
Rebecca Gimenez | Rescue Me
When will the 2014 saddleseat equitation young riders tryout be??
Emma Utoft | The USEF Will Field a US Saddle Seat Equitation Young Rider Team in 2013
These comments reflect exactly the reason I wanted to be so honest about the viability of what I am...
Lorelei Coplen | Profile in Profit - Rendezvous Run Farm, PA
After buying an older horse that turned out to have chronic diarrhea, my friend tried every supplem...
Shelley m | Digestive Health