Pandemic highlights need to plan ahead to avoid laminitis

Clarity is needed on what owners can do for their laminitis-and obesity-prone horses in the event of future lockdowns

- BECKY MURRAY

THE pandemic has highlighted challenges faced by owners of horses and ponies at risk of laminitis. A study, “Covid-19 impacts equine welfare: Policy implications for laminitis and obesity”, conducted by Scotland’s Rural College and the Waltham Petcare Science Institute, aimed to assess how lockdown affected the management and welfare of horses and ponies prone to laminitis and obesity.

Following interviews with owners, farriers and vets, researchers concluded steps taken to protect public health during the pandemic – including reduced exercise, turning horses away and limiting yard visits – had the potential to compromise the welfare of at-risk horses and ponies, and there was a need for guidance to highlight risk factors in the event of future lockdowns.

A BALANCING ACT

PhD STUDENT Ashley Ward, who led the study, told H&H that participants felt guidelines issued by the Government and governing bodies were not attuned to the needs of horses with laminitis.

“People were finding themselves in a position where they were trying to stay in line with Government guidance, at the same time as balancing their horse’s welfare,” she said.