The demands of training, riding, and competing can take a toll on a horse's body. As they exert themselves, they lose vital nutrients and electrolytes, experience muscle fatigue, and may become dehydrated. Equine recovery pastes are specifically designed to counter these challenges and aid in the revitalization process after intense exercise. By understanding the unique benefits of these specially formulated pastes, you’ll be able to support your horses' physical well-being and achieve the best possible outcomes for their performance.

Types of Equine Pastes & Their Benefits

Administering equine recovery pastes to your horse after riding can offer several benefits. Here are some potential advantages :

Electrolyte Replacement : Many equine recovery pastes contain electrolytes, which are essential minerals (such as sodium, potassium, chloride) necessary for proper muscle function, hydration, and nerve transmission. After intense exercise or sweating, horses can lose electrolytes, and providing a recovery paste helps replenish them quickly. 

“Revive is specifically designed to hydrate the muscles with an ingredient call Betaine and allow oxygen utilization with Octacosanol. Betaine plays a very important role in hydration of cells. It is known to attract water and protect cells from stressful factors from the environment and dehydration.” (4 doses per tube) #OE-REVIVE

Pain Relief : Buteless Pain Relief Equine Paste is a game-changer in the world of equine care, designed to provide horses with the comfort they deserve after intense physical exertion. This remarkable paste offers an alternative to traditional non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) without compromising on efficacy. 

“Bute-Less promotes a balanced inflammatory response and helps ease aches and discomfort associated with aging and exercise. It’s been specially formulated to be given daily and is gentle on the stomach, though we recommend not giving Bute-Less on the same day that non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications have been given.” Contains Devil’s Claw, Vitamin B-12 & Yucca. (3 doses per tube) #430400

Calming :  “Equine Healthcare Equi+Calm helps relieve your horse's stress and discontentment so you can return to safe performance training or a relaxing trail ride.” Maple Praline flavored paste flows easily from the 30cc syringe for oral dosing or top dressings on feed which 

Equi+Calm reduces adrenaline and increases endorphins - ensuring your horse stays bright and alert while minimizing nervous behavior! (one dose) #469837

Respiratory : Most respiratory equine pastes are crafted with a blend of natural ingredients, carefully selected to address common respiratory challenges faced by horses. The powerful combination of botanical extracts, essential oils, and soothing agents works harmoniously to help ease respiratory discomfort, reduce inflammation, and maintain clear airways.

Oxy-Gen Rush is an eucalyptus oil-based performance paste that is recommended to support respiratory health, stamina, endurance, and normal recovery after strenuous activity. Active Ingredients : Insulin, Vitamin E, Wheat Meal, Magnesium, Arginine, Eucalyptus and Vitamin D3) Inactive Ingredients : Glycerin, Propionic Acid, Salt and Soy Oil. ( 4 doses per tube) #00911910

Gastric / Digestive Support : These pastes contain ingredients that promote gastrointestinal health and aid digestion. They may include probiotics, prebiotics, or digestive enzymes. Digestive support pastes can benefit horses experiencing digestive disturbances or those prone to stress-related digestive issues.

MVP Gastro-Plex paste “is an excellent choice for use during periods of stress - horse shows, hauling, competition.” Nerves can be stemmed from gastric upset or the increased gastric acid produced during periods of stress. he key ingredients in this comprehensive formula include gelatin and amino acids to help soothe and support the stomach lining. In addition, it provides prebiotics and probiotics to support normal digestive function. ( 2 doses per tube ) #78501260

Probiotics : Equine probiotic pastes offer numerous benefits to horses by supporting their digestive health and overall well-being. Probiotics are beneficial microorganisms that, when administered in adequate amounts, can help maintain a healthy balance of gut bacteria. 

Fullbucket’s Equine Probotic Paste is a fast acting, highly concentrated yeast based formula that supports natural gut defense with probiotics, prebiotics and L-glutamine. 100 Billion CFU’s of Saccharomyces cerevisiae boulardii, a yeast strain of probiotic that is safe to use during antibioitc therapy and supports optimal digestion and immune system function. It also contains Microencapsulated - which helps protect the probiotics from heat and moisture. All natural, race and show safe and 100% overdose safe. (one dose) #EQPROPST10

Administering Equine Pastes

1. Read the Instructions : Carefully read and follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer on the packaging of the specific equine recovery paste you are using. This will give you important information on the recommended dosage and administration procedure.
2. Prepare the Syringe : If the recovery paste comes in a syringe, remove the cap or cover from the nozzle. Ensure that the plunger is pushed all the way in before filling it with the paste.
3. Positioning and Restraint : Find a safe and quiet area to administer the paste. If needed, have someone assist you in holding or restraining the horse to ensure its safety and cooperation during the process. Make sure the horse's head is accessible and that you can safely approach it. Approach the horse calmly and confidently. If the horse is uneasy or uncooperative, it may help to have someone hold its halter or gently restrain its head.
4. Administer the Paste : Insert the syringe into the horse's mouth between the back teeth (molars) and the cheek. Gently push the plunger to dispense the paste into the horse's mouth, towards the back of the tongue. It's important to administer the paste slowly to prevent choking. Some horses may resist or try to spit out the paste, so be patient and ensure that it is fully swallowed.
5. Allow the Horse to Swallow : Once the paste is in the horse's mouth, allow it time to swallow naturally. Avoid blocking the horse's airway by keeping its head level or slightly elevated. After the paste has been administered, carefully remove the syringe from the horse's mouth, being cautious not to touch the back of the horse's throat or accidentally get bitten.
6. Offer Water : It's generally a good practice to provide the horse with access to clean, fresh water after administering the paste. This can aid in the horse's digestion and help it wash down any remaining residue.

Always consult the specific instructions provided by the manufacturer and consider seeking guidance from a veterinarian or equine professional if you have any concerns or questions about administering the paste to your horse.As responsible equestrians, it's essential to prioritize our equine partners' health and happiness. By embracing the advantages of equine recovery pastes and integrating them into our horse care practices, we can witness the positive impact they have on our horses' well-being and performance levels.