I wrote to you first on 7/21 about my 18 yr old Morgan that I suspected had Cushings syndrome. He tested negative but I got to thinking. Since I brought him to Az in Nov of '04 he has been at a place that has city water that is flouridated. It's the first time that he has ever been on city water. I know that flouride is bad for the thyroid as I have an underactive thyroid myself and need to avoid flouride. Could this be the reason that he started growing extra hair this summer? He drinks alot as all the horses do here where it is over 100 nearly every day?
Thanks for your help
PS I'm getting him tested for a thyroid problem.
Charlie

Where are you from? Cave Creek, Arizona

How did you locate this forum? internet search

Hi Charlie,

I know that there is a lot of information circulating regarding the dangers of fluoride in city water, however, based on the scientific studies available, there would need to be far more fluoride in the water than is currently added to produce the effects you are describing. For example, if fluoride levels in your horse’s body were too high, he would have dental lesions, arthritis, and be slightly lame.

Having said that, it is possible that his thyroid is underactive and the fluoride is aggravating the situation. Along with hair problems, an underactive thyroid will create a low exercise tolerance, and he would be rather lethargic. Ask your vet what he/she is specifically testing when testing for thyroid function.

You may be on the right track.

All the best,

Dr. Getty

Thank you so much for your time and advice.
Charlie in Az

Where are you from? Cave Creek, Arizona

How did you locate this forum? internet search