Q: How is Aleira® different from other Omega-3 supplements?
A: Aleira is unique in its research, effectiveness and exclusivity. Aleira is the actual product used in the research cited by so many other companies with “similar” products. The truth is that there are no similar products. Arenus provides the only equine Omega-3 products existing that contain the purest form of algae-derived DHA available. Our DHA products are the most effective on the market.
Q: Will my horse find Aleira® palatable?
A: Yes, most horses do. But Aleira is aromatic due to its marine source. Some horses reject aromatic supplements at first, so we recommend opening each new container of Aleira and letting it air out for a couple of hours before use. With any aromatic product it’s best to introduce slowly by feeding ¼ scoop the first few days and adding ¼ scoop at a time until the dosing level is reached.
Q: What are the artificial flavors in Aleira®?
A: The artificial flavors in Aleira come from a combination of peppermint extract and ground peppermint.
Q: How is Aleira® different from Flaxseed?
A: There are three main Omega-3 Fatty Acids that are referenced in studies – DHA, EPA and ALA. DHA and EPA are primarily responsible for the improvement in ailments and dysfunctions of the immune, respiratory and reproductive systems. Flaxseed contains only ALA which the body must then convert to DHA and EPA to enjoy the beneficial effects associated with Omega-3s. Horses can’t convert ALA effectively enough to provide DHA or EPA benefits. To effectively supplement DHA and EPA, the source must be oceanic. Fish oil is the common form available for supplementation and is very effective for carnivores. Aleira uses an oceanic, algae-derived source of DHA. This makes it the only vegetarian supplement on the market to effectively supply horses with an easily absorbed algal-DHA source.
Q: How long does it take to see results in my horse’s symptoms on Aleira®?
A: This varies depending on the type of symptoms your horse is experiencing and the duration. Most chronic, respiratory cases report significant improvement in symptoms within 60 - 90 days while acute symptom improvement can occur in as little as 14 days. Most dermal allergies, dermatitis and other similar cases report significant improvement in as little as 10 - 14 days. The Mushroom Matrix and MSM included in Aleira’s formulation work quickly to address inflammation and to get symptoms under control. This allows the DHA time to fully incorporate into the cellular membrane, promote continued healing and symptom control at the base level. This usually takes about 90 days.
Q: How long does my horse need to stay on Aleira®?
A: Most of our customers are so pleased with the results, they opt to make Aleira part of their daily supplement regimen. For horses with seasonal challenges, some clients opt to start their horse 60 - 90 days prior to the season and only keep them on Aleira through their area’s high allergy season.
Q: Is there a loading dose with Aleira?
A: There is no set loading dose for Aleira. This is because the full, researched dose is one scoop per day. This is the recommended dose for all horses. However, we have seen that at least 50% of the horses managed for respiratory disease with Aleira are able to reduce the dose after the first full 90 days. These horses were reduced to ½ or ¾ of a scoop while still maintaining good clinical results. Each horse is unique and it takes a bit of testing to find the right dose for your horse. After 90 days of using a daily, full scoop of Aleira you can try switching to a ¾ scoop a day and monitoring the results to find the minimal effective dose for your horse. Keep in mind that seasonal respiratory issues, like allergies, may require an increased dose before and during the “tough” times of the year.
Q: Once on Aleira®, can I discontinue use of the other medications I was using for my horse?
A: You should always discuss your horse’s medication and supplementation plan with your veterinarian prior to making any changes. While not true of every case, there have been a number of horses that have been benefited greatly from the use of Aleira and were able to reduce or even discontinue use of traditional medications and maintain their condition with Aleira.
Q: Can I use Aleira in place of medication?
A: Aleira is not a medication and is not a treatment for any condition. Consult with your veterinarian when deciding on a medication or supplement plan for your horse. Many horse owners and veterinarians have turned to Aleira as an alternative to traditional medications when those medications are not indicated or well tolerated in the specific case. In these cases, Aleira has worked well to control symptoms and maintain quality of life.