Survey: One-Third of Horses With Health Problems are Lame
Edited Press Release
October 7, 2016
The British survey results also suggest that lamenesses are more likely to originate in the limb than in the foot.
Laminitis (commonly called “founder”) affects an estimated 7-14% of the world’s equine population. It’s the inflammation of the tiny, interwoven lamellae that attach a horse’s hoof to the underlying coffin bone (third phalanx, or P3) and support the horse’s entire body weight. Anything that impacts the integrity of the lamellae, such as inflammation, weakens their hold. This causes the coffin bone to displace within the hoof capsule and move toward the ground. The condition is very painful and is often life-threatening to horses.
The same disease has several different causes, which include:
The British survey results also suggest that lamenesses are more likely to originate in the limb than in the foot.
Being able to identify horses at increased risk of developing laminitis is key to reducing its incidence.
The foundation will distribute $459,198 to 27 organizations and special projects committed to improving equine welfare.
The foundation will support two research projects investigating support-limb laminitis.
Top take-homes from presentations on laminitis, grass sickness, atypical myopathy, sedation, and more.
Of the 585 respondents, 372 (64%) said they have owned or managed a horse with laminitis.
Your horse’s best chance of overcoming this hoof disease might lie in your ability to catch it early.
Researchers identified several disease predictors, including advancing age, laminitis, and a cresty neck, among others.
Horses with chronic laminitis should be closely monitored during treatment and recovery. Here’s what to consider.
Confinement is difficult but often necessary for healing. Learn how to keep horses healthy while on stall rest.
Overconditioning, grazing during sunlight hours, and frozen footing could potentially trigger laminitic episodes.
Spring grass might be delicious for horses, but it can cause problems including laminitis and fescue toxicity.
Chronically laminitic mares developed potentially detrimental changes in uterine blood flow during pregnancy.
Research topics include EHV-1 latency, foal pneumonia, training and surface factors in preventing injury, and more.
While hoof boots aren’t a permanent solution for chronic laminitis, they can provide customized support and pain relief.
Veterinarians share their experiences in delivering pain management and discuss the pros and cons of various drugs.
Stay on top of the most recent Horse Health news with
