Why Calming Supplements Like StressLess® Are a Smarter, Safer Choice Than Sedatives Like Ace
When it comes to helping horses manage stress, many owners and trainers have long relied on pharmaceutical sedatives like Acepromazine (commonly known as “Ace”). But is sedation really the best path to a calm and confident horse?
We sat down with Dr. Miles Hildebrand, DVM, of Hildebrand Performance Equine in Wellington, Florida to explore the differences between sedatives and calming supplements—and why products like StressLess® may be the best horse calming supplement choice for safety, long-term behavioral progress, and performance.
Sedation ≠ Calm
One of the most common misconceptions in equine behavior management is that a sedated horse is a calm horse. According to Dr. Hildebrand, that couldn’t be further from the truth.
“Ace doesn’t actually reduce anxiety—it just suppresses the outward signs,” he explains. “The horse may look calm, but internally, they’re still experiencing stress. They’re just physically unable to react.”
Acepromazine works by blocking dopamine receptors and alpha-1 adrenergic receptors in the brain. This causes muscle relaxation and sedation—but not emotional relief. In fact, it can cause dangerously low blood pressure, uncoordinated movement, and in some cases, serious medical emergencies.
StressLess®: Relaxed, Not Sedated
StressLess®, on the other hand, is a calming horse supplement that promotes relaxation by supporting the horse’s natural neurotransmitter balance—without dulling their mind or impairing their motor skills.
“What I appreciate about StressLess is that it helps horses stay relaxed but aware,” says Dr. Hildebrand. “They’re able to process their surroundings, which actually supports learning and desensitization over time.”
Unlike tranquilizers, which simply mute responses, StressLess® works with the horse’s body to ease tension naturally. The result is a calm, focused, and engaged animal—not a disconnected one.
Safety First—for Horse and Rider
Dr. Hildebrand emphasizes that one of the biggest risks of sedatives is impaired coordination. That’s a huge concern in settings like showing, trail riding, fox hunting or even routine training sessions.
“I’ve seen horses stumble, sway, or react too slowly to sudden movements,” he shares. “When a horse’s motor skills are compromised, it’s not just dangerous for them—it puts handlers and riders at risk, too.”
In some alarming cases, Dr. Hildebrand has treated geldings with penile paralysis after being sedated with too much Ace for sheath cleaning, resulting in emergency surgery. “It’s a real reminder that pharmaceuticals aren’t without serious side effects,” he says.
Long-Term Behavior Change Starts with Mental Focus
Over time, repeated reliance on sedation can create dependency—especially if the horse is never allowed to truly experience and process their environment in a relaxed state.
“A calm horse is learning, engaging, and forming positive associations,” explains Dr. Hildebrand. “A sedated horse is mentally checked out. That’s not a long-term solution.”
StressLess® allows for better behavioral outcomes by promoting a sense of security while keeping the horse fully functional and alert. Whether you’re heading to a show, loading up for travel, or introducing a young horse to new experiences, this best equine calming supplement gives horses the mental clarity to build confidence naturally.
Spot the Difference: Calm vs. Sedated
How can you tell if a horse is truly relaxed—or just drugged? According to Dr. Hildebrand, signs of sedation include:
- Glassy, dull eyes
- Drooping ears and lips
- Lack of interest in surroundings
- Wobbly stance and uncoordinated movements
- Delayed reactions to touch or sound
In contrast, a horse supported by a calming supplement like StressLess® may:
- Blink often and track movement
- Lower their head, lick, or chew
- Sigh or blow softly
- Stay responsive while remaining grounded
When to Reach for a Calming Supplement Instead of a Sedative
Calming supplements can be a better choice in a variety of everyday scenarios, including:
- Trailering and travel
- Separation anxiety from pasture mates
- Farrier visits or vet appointments
- First-time to showgrounds
- Introducing tack or handling new routines
In short, if the situation calls for focus without fear, a supplement like StressLess® is likely your best bet.
The Bottom Line: Choose the Best Calming Supplement for Horses
Sedatives have their place in veterinary medicine—but when it comes to supporting your horse’s emotional well-being and long-term behavioral success, a calming supplement is often the smarter, safer path.
StressLess® is trusted by veterinarians, trainers, and riders alike as the best calming supplement for horses because it works with the horse—not against them.
“With StressLess®, you get a horse that’s relaxed, but not shut down,” says Dr. Hildebrand. “And that’s the kind of calm that leads to real progress.”
Ready to help your horse feel their best—naturally?
Try StressLess® the best horse calming supplement for relaxed focus, safe handling, and stress-free performance.
Order yours today at Amazon or www.centerlinedistribution.net.
