When mare reproductive loss syndrome (MRLS) struck in 2001, the industry was scared and demanding answers. Nearly 3,000 of that year’s pregnancies were lost, some horses were diagnosed with heart and eye problems, and no one could figure out what was going on. And there were no funds set aside to handle a battle against an unknown equine disease.

Researchers at the University of Kentucky and even outside scientists strove to rule out causes and pinpoint what was behind the unusual early and late fetal abortions, foals born weak or compromised, uveitis (eye problems), and pericarditis (heart problems). While ruling out the known viruses and toxins was quickly done, the search for answers has taken time, and money. And it’s ongoing