Horses presenting with sand colic usually have a history of grazing on sandy soils, overgrazing paddocks or being fed in a ménage. For equines in these risk categories a faecal sample can be taken at intervals through the year and checked for sand to assess the levels in the gut. This is done by dissolving dung in water and observing the amount of sediment that settles in the sample overnight.
With the variables of gut movement it is possible for the test to generate a false negative and show no sand in the faeces of horses that are carrying a burden. For this reason we include two kits in one pack; if no sand is detected in the first sample then take a second a few days later. If sand is detected in the first test then the second can be used to retest the horse following management adjustments.
Test results from Westgate are expressed as a percentage to give a quantatitive measure of the level found.
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Direct From the Lab
Order a pack through or secure online shop. Your pack will contain all you need to collect and send samples including a postage paid return envelope and pre- paid vouchers for the laboratory testing along with plenty of helpful information.
Purchase a Westgate Retail Pack
Available from all good saddlers our faecal sand test kits are also available in your local store in our compostable, re-usable pouches. This product won the coveted Judge's Choice Innovation Award at BETA International 2020.
Please note: we do not supply our service through any other manufacturer so make sure you ask for the Westgate Labs service by name!
