Introducing a new wellness product for your horse often comes with thoughtful consideration. As equine veterinary professionals, we understand that horses have unique needs, management styles, and environmental stressors that all play a role in how they respond to supplementation. This guide outlines what to expect when starting a VetCS product for horses, how to approach dosing, and when additional support may be helpful. As always, we recommend consulting with your veterinarian before introducing any new supplement.
When to Start
The decision to begin a VetCS product for your horse should be based on their individual needs, workload, environment, and the severity of the condition you are wanting to support.
For VetCS equine products, dosing guidance is provided on the label and is generally expressed in scoops or measured amounts rather than strict weight-based dosing, as we work off of an average 1200-1300 lb horse. Dosing can be adjusted for mini horses, donkeys, or other livestock. For horses with more progressed or chronic concerns, it is appropriate to begin at the higher end of the recommended starting range. For horses with more mild, maintenance, or situational needs, starting at the lower end of the dosing range is often sufficient, with the option to gradually increase as needed based on observed response.
Many horses with chronic conditions benefit from daily use for ongoing support, while others may use certain products situationally, such as prior to trailering, training, or other known stressors. If you are unsure which product or starting dose is most appropriate for your horse, our team is available to help guide you.
What to Expect in the First Week
Every horse responds differently, and changes may be subtle at first. Some horses show early improvements in demeanor, comfort, or adaptability, while others may require more time and consistency. Daily use is important during the initial period, and many horse owners begin to notice positive changes within the first one to two weeks.
For horses receiving powdered products, top dressing onto grain, soaked feed, or mash is typically well accepted and an easy way to administer. Paste may be administered directly into the mouth using our easy dial-a-dose syringe, or possibly mixed into feed, depending on preference and management routine.
Consistency Matters
Consistency is especially important when supporting horses, as their systems respond best to steady, routine supplementation. Administering your VetCS product at the same time each day allows for more consistent support and makes it easier to assess changes over time. A second dosing window can be added for twice daily protocols if necessary.
Establishing a daily routine also helps you better evaluate your horse’s response in areas such as comfort, behavior, focus, or recovery. If questions arise regarding timing, frequency, or whether adjustments may be appropriate, additional guidance is always available.
Common Questions
Can I use VetCS products alongside other supplements or medications my horse is receiving? We recommend consulting your veterinarian before introducing any new supplement, particularly if your horse is currently receiving medications or a complex supplement regimen. This ensures all aspects of your horse’s care plan work together safely and effectively. Our veterinary team is more than happy to review questions on concurrent medications as well.
How do I choose the right dose for my horse? Dosing guidance is provided on each product and offers a recommended range. The minimum dose for mild conditions is 125 mg once daily. For more advanced conditions, 250-500 mg may be necessary to meet their needs. Horses with more significant needs may benefit from starting at the higher end of the range, while those with mild or maintenance needs often do well at lower doses. Observing your horse’s response over time is key, and working with our team on dosing plans can be very beneficial.
How long should I wait before adjusting the dose? We recommend remaining at each dose level for at least 5 to 7 days before making adjustments. This allows adequate time to evaluate response and avoid increasing too quickly. Further dosing adjustments every 2 to 3 days may be appropriate, but it is encouraged to allow enough time in between changes to observe results.
When to Reach Out
If you have questions along the way, reaching out for guidance is encouraged and we are happy to help. Horses can vary widely in how they respond, severity of condition, and changes may take time. We are also happy to discuss any questions with your regular veterinarian as well.
Our veterinary team is available Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. MST by email, or to schedule a phone consultation. Outside of business hours, you may email us at info@vetcs.com, and we will follow up as soon as possible.
