Bonpard introduces a new product: Colostrum powder for foals and horses.
What is Bonpard Colostrum, and Who is it For?
Bonpard Colostrum is a pure, freeze-dried bovine colostrum powder (95%) combined with a prebiotic. This product is specifically designed to support a healthy start in life for newborn foals. It provides an effective supplement to the mare’s colostrum, which is essential for the development of the foal’s immune system. Additionally, Bonpard Colostrum can be used for horses of any age with temporarily or persistently reduced immunity due to illness, weather changes, or those undergoing intensive training.
Indications for Use in Foals
Absorbing sufficient and high-quality colostrum within the first hours after birth is crucial for a foal’s health and development. Colostrum plays a key role in the passive transfer of immunity, as it is rich in immunoglobulins that protect the foal against infections in its early life stages. It also contains B-lymphocytes, lysozyme, lactoferrin, and other substances that contribute to immune system development, as well as growth factors and hormones essential for gastrointestinal tract development. Ensuring that a foal receives enough high-quality colostrum in the first hours is therefore of great importance.
If a foal does not absorb enough IgG, this results in a failure of passive transfer (FPT). FPT is considered the most common cause of immunodeficiency in horses and occurs in 3-25% of newborn foals (Sellon, 2000). The IgG plasma level can be assessed to determine the passive transfer of immunity. For more information on passive immunity transfer and measuring foal IgG plasma levels with the VMRD reader, refer to our blog on foal health.
Bonpard Colostrum can be given preventively after birth as an immunity booster (preferably within the first six hours of life after maternal colostrum intake). It is also recommended for foals that have not received adequate colostrum due to illness, insufficient colostrum (quality) from the mare, the loss of the mare, premature birth, or twin births. Additionally, it can support intestinal health in cases of mild digestive disturbances or following antibiotic treatment.
Ingredients and Their Positive Effects
Bonpard Colostrum is ideal for supporting the immune function and intestinal health of both foals and adult horses. The product contains an exceptionally high concentration of Immunoglobulin G (IgG) (39%), one of the most important antibodies for strengthening a foal’s immune system. The prebiotic in Bonpard Colostrum contributes to a healthy gut microbiome by providing nutrients for existing gut bacteria, promoting diverse and beneficial gut flora. Prebiotics were specifically chosen over probiotics (live yeast cells), as probiotic use is not yet well-substantiated and may even be associated with digestive disturbances in foals.
The combination of these ingredients ensures foals get a strong start in life with optimal immune system support. A study conducted on a breeding farm showed that foals receiving Bonpard Colostrum in addition to maternal colostrum had higher serum IgG levels and demonstrated greater uniformity in IgG levels compared to foals that only received mare’s colostrum.
In adult horses, these ingredients also positively impact the immune system, gut health, and recovery capacity. A study by Fenger et al. (2014) observed that racehorses supplemented with bovine colostrum earned more prize money per race, recovered faster, and returned to competition sooner. Further studies by Fenger et al. in 2014 and 2016 also reported positive effects on the prevalence and recovery of respiratory conditions in horses supplemented with bovine colostrum.
How to Use Bonpard Colostrum
This colostrum powder serves as a supplement or replacement for mare’s colostrum, thereby supporting the foal’s immune system. It can be mixed with water or milk (from the mare or an artificial source such as Bonpard Equimel).
Dosage for foals:
Mix 90 g of powder with lukewarm water and administer the solution using a syringe or bottle.
Dosage for adult horses and ponies:
Bonpard Colostrum can be added to daily feed.
- During periods of increased stress:
- Horses: twice a day 25 g
- Ponies: twice a day 12,5 g
- For maintaining good immune function:
- Horses: once a day 25 g
- Ponies: once a day 12,5 g
Do you want to learn more about Bonpard Colostrum?
Would you like more information about Bonpard Colostrum, its combined use with Bonpard Equimel, or how to order the product? Visit our product page for detailed information and ordering options, or contact us at info@grovet.com.
Does your practice already use dropshipping?
Since 2023, we have offered dropshipping services, allowing your clients to order Bonpard dietary and specialty feeds directly through your practice on the Bonpard webshop. Curious about the benefits for your practice or have questions about this service? Contact us at info@bonpard.com.
