Question
I am looking for a supplement for my old horse for joint, bone and muscle support. Also, how does it compare to rose hips?
Answer
Rose hips have become popular in human nutrition for their possible role in improving immunity, osteoarthritis, and gastric problems. Very little research has been done to test the efficacy of supplementation with rose hips in horses, though, particularly in the realm of osteoarthritis. The role of rose hips on immunity and inflammation is due to the high content of vitamin C but, unlike humans, most horses do not need supplementation of vitamin C as sufficient quantities are produced in the healthy liver. Based on the paucity of research in horses, using science-proven products designed for horses is advised.
The KERx Special Needs Nutrition supplement line, developed by Kentucky Equine Research, is designed to complement a balanced feeding program and to address common problems as well as special needs. The best KERx option for overall health in geriatric horses is EO•3, a rich source of DHA and EPA long-chain omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3s are effective in mediating inflammatory responses throughout the body, including those in joints, and are beneficial for bone health and immunity. Sources of omega-3s such as EO•3 are a better option than rose hips, as rose hips contain higher levels of omega-6s, which leads to a pro-inflammatory imbalance.
Another supplement option for your horse is a complete antioxidant for muscle recovery and immune function. Preserve PS (Preserve in Australia) contains natural-source vitamin E, organic selenium, vitamin C, and magnesium for maximum antioxidant support.
Specialized joint supplements may also be beneficial to keep your horse comfortable and mobile in old age. KER offers a glucosamine chondroitin product KER•Flex to maintain joint integrity and minimize wear and tear. Synovate HA is a liquid sodium hyaluronate product that provides lubrication to the joint capsules and helps maintain cartilage health. In Australia, look for Glucos-A-Flex.
