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The Many Faces of Equine Metabolic Syndrome

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Post-Foaling Red Flags
HERDA 20 Years Later
Strangles: An Old Disease in a Modern World
Before She Foals: Managing Broodmares
Beneath the Hoof Wall: Soft Tissues Injuries of the Equine Foot

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Can PPID or EMS Affect My Horse’s Joints?

December 8, 2023
Posted by Haylie Kerstetter

Dr. Luke Bass describes the unique joint changes that might be seen in horses with PPID and EMS.

Topics: Arthritis & Degenerative Joint Disease, Bone & Joint Problems, Cushing's Disease, Media, Metabolic Syndrome, Older Horse Care Concerns, Podcasts

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Horses with pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction (PPID, formerly known as equine Cushing’s disease) and equine metabolic syndrome (EMS) often need a specialized management program to reduce their risk of associated conditions such as laminitis. Dr. Luke Bass of Colorado State University, in Fort Collins, explains why you and your veterinarian should consider your horse’s metabolic status when creating a joint health management plan.

This podcast is an excerpt of our Ask TheHorse Live Q&A, “Maintaining Senior Horse Joints.” Listen to the full recording here.

About the Expert

Luke Bass, DVM, MS, Dipl. ABVP (Equine)

Luke Bass, DVM, MS, Dipl. ABVP is an associate professor in Equine Field Service at Colorado State University (CSU). He is board-certified through the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners (ABVP-Equine) and is certified in equine acupuncture. He served on the American Association of Equine Practitioners board of directors from 2019 to 2021 and will be chair of AAEP’s Educational Programs Committee from 2024 to 2025. Bass leads the Equine Field Service at CSU with three faculty members and two interns focusing on general practice, lameness examinations, dentistry, and emergency care.

Written by:

Haylie Kerstetter

Haylie Kerstetter, Digital Editor, holds a degree in equine studies with a concentration in communications and a minor in social media marketing. She is a Pennsylvania native and, as a horse owner herself, has a passion for helping owners provide the best care for their horses. When she is not writing or in the barn, she is spending time with her dog, Clementine.