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New insights into laminitis risk factors
horses
Cold-blooded animals <149cm, including certain native ponies, and those kept on high quality pasture were at greater risk of developing laminitis.
Hormone and insulin levels may indicate risk

It may soon be possible to identify horses at risk of developing pasture-associated laminitis by checking hormone and insulin levels, as well as body condition, breed type and environment.

Two new studies carried out in collaboration with the Waltham Equine Studies Group have provided fresh insights into the condition, which manifests in the foot and causes varying levels of pain, lameness and debilitation.

A team led by Nanna Luthersson looked at the risk factors in a group of Danish horses and ponies. Their work confirmed that cold-blooded animals <149cm, including certain native ponies, and those kept on high quality pasture were at greater risk of developing laminitis.

The study, which was published in the Journal of Equine Veterinary Science, also showed that a change in the type and amount of grass eaten is significant at all times of the year, not just in spring as commonly thought.

A second study was carried out with Nicola Menzies-Gow of the Royal Veterinary College. It revealed that low concentrations of the adipose tissue derived hormone adiponectin, along with high serum insulin concentrations, could predict an increased risk of pasture-associated laminitis in future.

It is hoped that future work will create more robust cut off values, to allow more accurate predictions of laminitis in individual animals.

Commenting on the findings, Spillers research and development manager Clare Barfoot, said: "The Danish study gives us important practical facts about the susceptibility of cold-blooded types, and is particularly applicable to natives in the UK.

"The second study gives hope that there may soon be a test or series of tests that will help predict those at an increased risk of suffering from pasture associated laminitis in the future thereby reducing the number of animals affected by this debilitating condition.

"In the meantime until we fully understand the condition it is sensible to manage all the risk factors we currently know about, in particular keeping your horse at a healthy weight."

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Webinar to explore history of KC breed registers

News Story 1
 A free webinar exploring the development of the Kennel Club's registration system and the evolution of closed breed registers has been announced.

Hosted by Dr Alison Skipper, veterinary and research advisor at the Kennel Club, the webinar will delve into the development of the registry and how the changing landscape of scientific knowledge has shaped breeding practices. It will also look at what this means for the future of pedigree dogs.

The session will culminate with a look at The Kennel Club's ongoing and future engagement in this area, with a chance for attendees to put forward their thoughts and questions for discussion.

This event takes place on Microsoft Teams on Tuesday, 10 June at 7pm. To learn more, visit events.teams.microsoft.com  

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.