PROBIOTICS

Use as a dietary supplement to increase the population of the beneficial micro flora found in the digestive system. Probiotic preparations may be presented in different ways depending on the animal receiving the supplement and the condition to be treated, they may be in the form of liquids, powders, tablets, capsules, pastes or sprays and may be include specific antioxidants to further aid in building of the immune system. The aim of the probiotic approach is to repair the deficiencies in the micro flora bacteria(exclusion therapy) and restore the animals' resistance to disease. Probiotics, such as L. Acidophilus, L. Bulgaricus and Bifid bacterium can be very useful in preventing the proliferation of yeast cells during antibiotic use. They stimulate the growth of the beneficial bacteria, which are destroyed by the use of antibiotics, stress or illness and leave less room for the pathogenic microorganisms to flourish. The beneficial bacteria aid in digestion and produce vitamins B and K, which are destroyed along with many other nutrients during antibiotic treatment. Probiotics are now replacing the chemical growth promoters typically used for large commercial farms, with the intent to reduce antibiotic resistant bacteria, to provide more antibiotic free meat and eggs, to better performance in egg production and healthier flocks, to reducing costs incurred from medicated feed. You will find Probiotics being used in every area where healthier livestock is a concern. Fowl are susceptible to a wide-range of stress related difficulties. Often effected by diet deficiencies, molting, temperature changes, breeding, brooding, handling, transporting, trauma, antibiotic and medical treatment, overcrowding, new surroundings, production to parasitic infestations. These stresses are cumulative often times leaving a fowl susceptible to disease or other health related issues. The most common symptoms of stress include feather picking, changes in feather coat/quality, loose stools, appetite loss, weight loss (going light), drop in egg production and fertility, dehydration and listlessness. Stress naturally reduces the number of healthy bacteria found in the digestive system, in particular the small intestine where nutrient absorption takes place. When this occurs, harmful bacteria increases, adding to the stress situation. Creating a weak immune system. Since nutrient absorption and proper metabolism are essential to the health of any bird they are the first factors affected by stress, it is important that beneficial bacteria is present. Natural balance is lost in the internal systems as a result of adverse environmental conditions. The environment of the intestine can be altered by the often-simple introduction of well meaning antibiotics. Antibiotics sharply alter the balance between the "good and bad" bacteria by drastically reducing both and leaving the fowl vulnerable to present bacteria. Adding Probiotics to the diet after any medications will aid in the suppression of the growth of harmful organisms allowing time for the "good bacteria " to replenish and stabilize. Rebuilding the natural immune system. There are several ways of introducing a beneficial supplement of Probiotics, a daily supplement added to feed as a topcoat or dressing, water additives to special formulated capsules. With many products specially formulated for avian. Ingredients will vary from product to product. So will cost, visit your health food stores and pet suppliers for best available prices.

Garlic, vitamin C and bioflavonoids are effective in strengthening the immune system, thus preventing and fighting infection, and also possess anti-tumor properties. Garlic acts as an anti microbial medicine and may ameliorate bacterial, viral, parasitical and fungal infections. Use a garlic extract that contains the powerful nutrients: vitamin A, C, E and selenium. These antioxidant nutrients help your fowl to build a strong resistance to infection and disease. Garlic can also be used as a natural pesticide. Taking several large cloves chopped and added to a container (about a quart size) of water to prepare a stock solution. Allowing the solution to ferment for several days. Diluting ½ the solution in a spray bottle to then apply to the fowl. A natural garlic spray acts as a deterrent to pests. Some studies have shown it actually kills present pests on fowl and those that received regular applications had less infestations of external parasites.

Apple Cider Vinegar Solution Organic unfiltered, unpasteurized, naturally fermented ACV is desired for its medicinal features. ACV can provide animals with enzymes and important minerals, such as potassium, calcium, magnesium, sulfur, chlorine, phosphorus, iron, silicon and other trace minerals. The vitamins contained in ACV are bioflavionoids (vitamin P), beta-carotene (precursor to vitamin A), vitamin C, E, B1, B2, and B6. Tannins from the crushed cell walls of fresh apples as well as malic acid; tartaric acid, propionic acid, acetic acid and pectin (fiber) are also contained in ACV. ACV has the ability to prevent the growth of bacteria and mold.

Acts to balance the acid-alkaline pH levels in the body and helps to oxygenate the blood aiding in the natural immune system. May be an effective remedy for arthritis, gout and kidney disease and helpful in alleviating joint pain helpful as an aid for digestion, helping to break down minerals, protein and fats. It also inhibits the growth of unfriendly bacteria in the digestive tract, which can result in the conditions called Mycosis and Mycoctoxicosis by eliminating mold toxins, often times found in litter. Can be a helpful therapy in treating vent gleet and thrush. ACV has detoxification properties, which can be an aid in treating botulism. ACV has been used successfully for dry, itchy or infected skin and feather problems. Can be added to water for consumption at a ratio of 4 teaspoons/gallon. Diluted and sprayed on feed, to then be consumed has preservative properties. Used in bathing water to relieve flaky, dry skin and old plumage. Should not be used as a sole treatment for any bacterial or fungal related disease only as an aid in prevention of a potential problem. Solutions can be used as a flush in the aid of crop related problems. Solution should not be the sole source of water and an average of 3 times a week an AVC solution could be given as a replacement. May inhibit some antibiotics.

An herbal remedy. Helps relieve colds symptoms by opening air passages, treatment for scaly legs. Apply liberally to comb, face and nostrils for easier breathing. Contains no antibiotics.

For stress and dehydration. Can be used as a flush.

Add one pint of molasses to 5 gallons of water, birds for about four hours. Return the birds to regular water after the treatment period.

1 teaspoon of Epsom Salt in 1 fl oz water. Any flush is just that a flush and only to be administered in one application. They are aimed at flushing the system of toxins and poisons that may have accumulated in the crop due to the digestion of toxic material. After such a treatment it is suggested to offer the fowl soft foods to further aid in the passing of any toxins through the intestines.

Digestible oils can be used in treating crop impaction, egg binding to treatment for scaly leg mites 

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