Laminitis management with Kerri Hyland from Vibrant Animal Health

Are you aware of the hidden dangers your horse might face, even when they're grazing peacefully? Laminitis is a silent threat that can strike unexpectedly, causing severe pain and potentially life-threatening complications for your horse. Understanding and preventing this condition is essential for every horse owner.

In this episode, we dive deep into the challenges of managing laminitis, a condition that every horse owner dreads. Whether you're dealing with it for the first time or seeking better ways to prevent it, this conversation with Kerrie Hyland, a seasoned expert in equine health, will provide invaluable insights and practical tips.

Laminitis is an inflammatory condition affecting the laminae of the hoof, which are the soft tissues connecting the hoof wall to the pedal bone. When these tissues become inflamed, they can weaken and separate, causing extreme pain and instability in the hoof. This instability is what makes laminitis so dangerous; it can lead to the pedal bone rotating or sinking, a condition known as founder. If left untreated, laminitis can lead to permanent lameness or even necessitate euthanasia.

One of the most crucial aspects of managing laminitis is early detection. By recognizing the early signs, you can take swift action to prevent the condition from worsening. Kerrie Hyland emphasizes the importance of being vigilant for symptoms such as shifting weight between feet, reluctance to move or walk, increased digital pulse, heat in the hooves, and a characteristic "laminitic stance" where the horse leans back to relieve pressure on the front feet. Catching these signs early can make a significant difference in the outcome for your horse.

Diet plays a pivotal role in both preventing and managing laminitis. Horses that are overweight or have a diet high in sugars and starches are at higher risk. Kerrie Hyland suggests limiting access to lush pasture, especially during times of rapid grass growth like spring and early summer. Providing low-sugar forage, opting for hay that has been tested for low non-structural carbohydrate (NSC) content, avoiding grain-based feeds, and choosing feeds specifically formulated for horses prone to laminitis are all important steps. Additionally, monitoring your horse's body condition and keeping them at a healthy weight reduces the risk of laminitis.

In addition to conventional treatments, herbal therapies can support your horse's recovery from laminitis. Kerrie Hyland discusses various herbs known for their anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. For example, Devil's Claw is renowned for its pain-relieving effects, Turmeric serves as a powerful anti-inflammatory agent, and Hawthorn supports circulation and cardiovascular health. While these herbal remedies can be beneficial, they should be used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan under the guidance of a trained animal naturopath to ensure they do not interact negatively with other treatments or conditions.

Effective management of laminitis requires a collaborative approach. Kerrie Hyland stresses the importance of working closely with your veterinarian to develop a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your horse's specific needs. This plan may include medications to manage pain and inflammation, regular trimming and corrective shoeing to support the hoof structure, and providing a soft, stable surface for your horse to stand on to reduce pain and encourage movement. Farrier care is particularly critical; corrective shoeing can help redistribute weight away from the damaged laminae and support the hoof as it heals.

Environmental management is another key aspect of laminitis prevention and recovery. Horses prone to laminitis may benefit from limited turnout on lush pastures, especially during times of rapid grass growth. Instead, they can be provided with controlled access to grazing or kept in a dry lot where their diet can be carefully managed. Regular exercise is also important, as it helps maintain a healthy weight and supports circulation in the hooves, but it must be moderated based on the horse’s current condition and under veterinary guidance.

Laminitis is a serious condition that demands attention and proactive management. By understanding the early signs, implementing effective dietary strategies, exploring herbal therapies, and working closely with your vet, you can protect your horse from the devastating effects of laminitis.

Tune in to our episode with Kerrie Hyland to gain a deeper understanding of this condition and learn practical tips to keep your horse healthy and happy. Don't wait until it's too late—start taking steps today to safeguard your horse's well-being.