189 East Nelson Ave. #157, Wasilla, Alaska  99654
(907) 745-8885 Business and Text

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-Veterinary Information-
Colic
Colic is a generic term for "abdominal pain".  The source of the pain can occur at any point in the digestive tract or associated organs.  

1.  Initial signs of colic may  include:  
               Depressed appearance or "Just not right"
               Not eating a regular volume of feed or off feed completely  
               Stretching and looking at sides

2.  As the condition worsens the horse may attempt to roll or throw himself down.  Be very careful at this point as he may become hazardous to be near

3.  Discontinue all feed and supplements.  Insure the horse has access to water.  Warm "baited" water may entice the horse to drink.  Add a very small amount of a  favorite food or treat to warm water (sweet feed, hay pellets, apple sauce, molasses, hay pellets, sweet feed, apple sauce, molasses, etc.).

4.  Walk the horse - the jury is out on the benefit.  But, it is an easy treatment and will not harm the horse.  Walking also allows constant observation and redirects the attention of the horse.

Call your veterinarian immediately

After Care

1. Closely follow your veterinarians instructions.

2. Do not allow the horse to eat solid feed for 8 - 12  hours after all symptoms are gone.  I prefer the horse to have access to warm baited water at all times.

3.  Begin by feeding very small amounts of hay multiple times throughout the day.

4.  After 1-2 days introduce psyllium in the diet.  "Sand Clear" is a well known psyllium product.  Metamucil can also be used at 1/2 cup daily.  Mix your choice of psyllium product in a hay pellet mash to promote consumption.   Continue a course of psyllium over a 7 day period (Metamucil, Sand Clear, etc.)
                 
5.  After all symptoms have diminished, transition to a normal feeding routine over a 3-4 day time period.
                   
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