07/31/2026
Oklahoma, I don't know about y'all, but we at EIVS are looking forward to the break in this heat!
Let's chat a little about anhydrosis bc that has been the flavor of the week.
In Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine, anhydrosis has three main causes:
1. There isn't enough Qi in the body to open the pores to let the sweat out.(Lung Qi Deficiency)
2. There isn't enough liquid in the body to convert to sweat to push out. (Yin or Blood Deficiency)
3. A Summer Heat Invasion which is the closest to environmental heat stroke. You're out in the heat too long and get overwhelmed.
From a treatment standpoint, Dr. Bukenhofer will examine and figure out which cause (or causes) is behind your horse's anhydrosis, and treat accordingly with acupuncture, herbs, and some supplements and diet additions.
The most important part about anhydrosis and TCVM treatments is you don't stop treating when the weather cools off. The treatment is tonifying deficiencies, and that takes time. The body needs to recharge and get back into balance.
Anhydrosis is not a one and done fix.
Don't get discouraged if treatments haven't instantly improved the situation, every horse heals on its own schedule!
If you're horse is struggling with anhydrosis, or any other issues, call or text Equine Integrative Veterinary Services at 405.549.9070 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Bukenhofer, and stay cool!