Pheromone communication has been at the heart of Duggan Veterinary Supplies expertise for over 40 years, and we are now pleased to announce the launch of the innovative equine appeasing pheromone, ConfidenceEQ®.
A pheromone is a naturally occurring chemical that an animal produces used for intraspecies communication, which means that their presence automatically and predictably affects all members of the same species, regardless of age or gender. Horses communicate and send a wide range of information through the many pheromones, including:
- ocial status
- Territorial limits
- Understanding other horses
- Setting off an alarm
- Sexual cycle
- Convey assurance
Like many mammals, nursing mares naturally emit a calming pheromone that reassures their newborn foal. When the foal encounters unfamiliar situations and uncharted territory, this pheromone makes the foal feel comfortable, secure, and more self-assured, enabling them to better learn about their surroundings. ConfidenceEQ® is an identical replica of this horse appeasing pheromone. Numerous studies have been conducted since the equine appeasing pheromone was discovered, proving its effectiveness in reducing stress in conditions that occur frequently in horses of all ages.
Donal Duggan is delighted to add ConfidenceEQ® to the Duggan Veterinary Equine armoury, stating: “The ideal time to use ConfidenceEQ® is when you anticipate your horse will be exposed to something new which they may find stressful. ConfidenceEQ® helps reassure horses, helping them focus allowing them to use their own skills to cope with their surroundings and can be used to help build confidence in situations such as:
- Loading, travelling and recovery after arrival
- Environmental changes (new yard, stabling) or competition environment
- Social situations (weaning foals, meeting new horses)
- Dealing with loud noises (large crowds, thunderstorms, fireworks)
- Breaking young horses and introducing new exercises during training
- Farrier, vet, or dental visits”
