Prognosis Prognosis has been shownto be directly relatedtothe horse or pony’s initial level of
discomfort.Those with ahigh level of pain despite pain relief in the early stages of laminitis areproventohave apoorer survival rate than those who respond better to treatmentinthe firstfew days of the
disease.Cases thatare identified and treatedpromptly also carry abetter prognosis.Diagnostic X-rays can also give an indication
of severityand thereforeprognosis of the
disease.Sadly,some equines suffering fromlaminitis suffer fromhigh levels of uncontrollable pain despitemedication; these cases area welfareconcernand as suchmayrequireeuthanasing to avoid uncontrollable suffering.
Prevention Themotto“Prevention is better than cure”isparamountwith laminitis! It is thoughtthat90%of laminitics
X-rayshowing laminitic changes within the hoof
aresuffering froman underlying hormonal disease such as PPID or EMS, thereforedisease awareness andearly testing is paramountin the prevention of futurebouts of
laminitis.Body Condition Scoring is an easy waytoassess how much fatthey arecarrying and is a technique which can easily be done at home.Undertaken regularly,Body Condition Scores canprovide an early warning of changes in their fat deposits and have been designed
to caterfor all types of equine, regardless of type and breed.
Summary Laminitis is still seen toocommonly in the UK,despitehuge advances in scientificunderstanding of the disease and its triggers. With careful managementand monitoring of weightand diet, as well as the early diagnosis of underlying diseases,manycases of laminitis can be avoidable.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Gemma Carman MRCVSisanEquine VeterinarySurgeon at Spring Paddocks Equine
Clinic.She enjoys undertaking all aspects of equine careand has aspecial interest in internal medicine,particularly PPID and EMS. In her sparetime she regularly competes in affiliateddressage competitions. Spring Paddocks Equine Clinic offer first and second opinion Equine Veterinary services across the whole of the Midlands area and at their fully equipped Clinic. They offer awide range of in-house and portable services such as digital x-ray, ultrasound and gastroscopy.
www.springpaddocksequine.co.uk
Gabriella Marsh riding Bumble
Speedi-Beet Quick Soaking Beet Pulp Flakes
•Suitablefor laminitics •95% sugar-free
•Slow release energy •Quick soaking •Excellent value
“Bumble has been prone to laminitis,whichisverystressful in the Spring. Since feeding Speedi-Beet he’sbeen sound andhealthy, and has plenty of energy forPony Club activities!” Allen Marsh
T: +44 (0) 1765 680 300
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APRIL 2017
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