Why can they be vital?
Research clearly shows that a healthy immune system comes mainly from a healthy gut.... For instance, 70% of a horse's & 80% of a human's immune system depends on a healthy intestine! Thanks to the recent yoghurt adverts, the 'concept' is now better understood... however, using a 'pure' probiotic such as Protexin offers the body a totally different league of product, be it strength, efficacy, purity or ability to survive the digestive processes.
If bacteria levels are 'out of balance' within any human/animal, the immune system struggles.... and then can say 'overreact' to itching, under react to illness or just not quite recover from an episode.
The gut's balance of microflora is constantly under threat in humans/animals from
• stress, illness, weaning, antibiotics, unsuitable/indigestible foods, upset tummies, natural wastage as food passes through, seasonal issues, and for animals, from competition, travel-related & shearing stress, wet weather, worming, cereal rich diets (containing insufficient fibre), molasses, rice, those prone to laminitis & general changes of diet/water.
Over time, such 'abuse' can retard the immune system's ability to cope with even seemingly innocuous issues. Therefore, keeping the 'friendly bacteria' topped up is key.
Probiotics can also play an important role in helping the body ward off & cope better with the
ageing process & stiff joints, whether for humans, pets or horses. Also see our NEW Omega 3 section for aging pets & humans.
Probiotics can also support the following during use of Ruggle-it®:
• animals & pets - issues connected to summer & general itching, muddy environments & scabs, during weaning and early development of the digestive environment, stress from attack by flies/mossies/mites, hair loss/patchiness, hot skin, feet issues from spring grass/over indulgence, crusty lumps, fungal issues, minor wounds, persistent scabs, scurfy skin & stressed animals at shearing (alpacas, sheep)
• pets (additional to the above) - issues connected with pet fleas & hot skin;
• humans - skin & digestive issues
What do Probiotics Do?
Probiotics keep the good bacteria healthy & flourishing so that digestion works at optimal levels which in turn supports the immune system.
The 'friendly bacteria' help stop the potentially harmful (pathogenic) bacteria from becoming dominant,
thus helping to keep the correct balance of good and bad bacteria. In turn this can allow better use of the nutrients obtained from the daily diet and a stronger immune system. Animals & humans alike require help breaking down food into digestible substances - the billions of friendly bacteria do this within our guts. There is also much anecdotal evidence (including from our clients!) that they act as a highly effective natural 'calmer'.
When to use Probiotics
They can be 'trickle fed' so that the friendly bacteria are constantly topped up & helping to support the human or animal's natural immunity. Or they can be taken in response to an acute disruption, such as after a course of antibiotics, illness, worming, when a change of environment, weather or diet has occurred, during & after times of stress (e.g. travel, competition, stress from itching), when starting at or changing schools for children, around work deadlines, when shearing alpacas, goats, sheep, etc..
Important Note: Any blacked out words with [bracketed] text has been ameneded to meet VMD/Vet Med criteria. All text is Veterinary Medicines Directorarte (VMD) compliant. Click here for what that means to you.
