Laminitis study looks at effects of lifestyle

Horse owners are being asked to get involved in a UK-wide laminitis study, as part of National CARE day on 10 February.

Vital laminitis study

The CARE study is collecting vital data on the effects of lifestyle on laminitis, while helping owners monitor their horse’s health.

The four-year campaign is being undertaken by the Animal Health Trust and Royal Veterinary College, and funded by World Horse Welfare.

According to PhD student Dee Pollard, who is leading the research, laminitis is one of the main health concerns of owners and vets.

“Most horse owners will have either had experience of laminitis themselves or will know of someone who has,” she said.

“However, it is a notoriously complex disease and diagnosis is not always straightforward.”

Maintain condition

Shamrock has never had laminitis, but that hasn’t stopped his owner Gail from registering him for the CARE study.

“The study encourages me to keep a close eye on Shamrock’s condition,” said Gail.

“It’s very easy when you have a retired pony in a field and are seeing them twice a day to not be aware of small changes in their health.

“Measuring him and looking at the results carefully makes me more aware of his weight and how well he’s maintaining his condition. Just because your horse has never had laminitis, it doesn’t mean it won’t ever get it.”

Register for CARE

Owners of almost 1,500 horses and ponies have signed up to CARE already, but a further 1,000 are needed.

“On National CARE Day we are calling on everyone involved in the equine world to join us in sharing our images and video on their website and social media, encouraging all of their friends and supporters to register for CARE,” said Dee.

To get involved visit www.careaboutlaminitis.org.uk.