Farriers and veterinarians gathered at the 6th International Equine Conference on Laminitis and Diseases of the Foot, to discuss their research, advancements and understanding of the often deadly disease.

This devastating hoof disease is caused by inflammation of the horse’s laminae—interlocking leaflike tissues attaching the hoof to the coffin bone. Through a series of scientific, practical and owner-oriented programs, presenters covered issues such as lameness detection, pain management, shoeing strategies and treatments.

Some of the synopses discussed at the 2011 conference include foot type and laminitis incidence in feral horses; laminitis prevention and early intervention in hospitalized horses; recognizing early signs of insulin resistance; and endocrinopathic laminitis.