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Laminitis is one of the most crippling diseases impacting
horses. According to the USDA (United States Department of
Agriculture), "Laminitis (sometimes called founder) is a specific
condition of the foot that can produce lameness. Laminitis
is characterized by inflammation and destruction of the cellular
bond between the sensitive and insensitive laminae of the
hoof."
Barbaro, a Kentucky Derby winner, is perhaps the most well-known
horse to die of Laminitis. He did not die in vain as his death
has brought great attention to this dreaded disease. And,
as a result, research funds have poured in.
There are many causes of Laminitis. Grazing on lush green
spring grass for instance can cause Laminitis. Getting into
the feed room and gorging on too much feed, or eating lawn
clippings, may also be a cause for this illness in your horse.
Would you think that excessive walking on concrete could
cause Laminitis? Well, it most definitely could!
How about hay? Yes, the consumption of hay, especially fine
(non-coarse) hay can also cause Laminitis.
If a horse retains some membranes after giving birth to
a foal it could cause Laminitis in a mare.
Changes in your horse's diet should be made gradually, since
dietary changes can be the cause of Laminitis, as well.
In addition, ponies and thick crested horses are more susceptible
to Laminitis than other horses.
Well, we now know that there are a number of factors that
can cause Laminitis in a horse. The best remedy for this condition
is prevention.
Preventative Measures
Good stable management and nutritional management will help
prevent Laminitis. When that lush spring grass comes in, and
your horse looks longingly across the fence, let him in to
graze but, limit the time your horse spends eating it. Gradually
let him eat for longer periods each day for a two-week period.
After that, break it off for a spell (say, 2 weeks).
Good all-around horse management is the key to preventing
Laminitis in your horse or pony. By steadily applying the
preventative measures listed above, the odds of catching this
dreadful disease can be significantly reduced.
Look into horse feed called, "Happy Hoof". Our horses had
a serious hoof disease. One of the things that helped them
overcome this illness was Happy Hoof. They really seem to
enjoy the taste, too.
If you think your horse is suffering from this disease, do not
rely on the above listed steps, alone. As has been stated, Laminitis
is a serious problem. The survival of a horse suffering from
it is not guaranteed, even after the best of care. But, do all
you can by consulting a horse veterinarian, immediately. Try
to find a specialist. Ask the horse veterinarians you contact
who they recommend to combat Laminitis. You might also ask people
in online horse forums what vet they used to deal with this
affliction.
About the Author
Anna Persson is a syndicated horse and pony columnist. She is
the editor of "Happy Horses - Tips and Tales", an ezine catering
to equine enthusiasts. Subscribe now for free and discover horse
news, tips, stories, sayings, jokes, pictures, freebies and
more. Please place this article where you see fit. Horse
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