Posted by Katy Watts on August 07, 2003 at 08:23:31:
In Reply to: Laminitis with no rotation posted by joel dudenhefer on August 06, 2003 at 23:11:42:
: My horse got laminitis 4 weeks ago. Hadn't done so hot. No rotation though. Vet wanted the Vettac gel with screen stuff put on. Horse went dead lame as bad as the first week with it on. Horse has been on full dose bute and ace the entire time and could not back off on it - horse was in too much pain. Took horse to another vet who said to cut it out and just put lilly pads on. Horse started doing great - no drugs now.
: Questions are
: 1. How long to keep lilly pads on - how do I know when to not use them. One foot has mild heat in it.
: 2. Horse is now wanting to run around and buck and kick - is it OK - vet said I could turn him out. I don't mind putting the pads on after he tears them off
: 3. I hear about using hoof supplements, but don't they contain the bad protein the vet does not want me to feed my horse. He's only on 2 lbs straight oats.
: 4. Say he continues to improve, at what point can I start riding him again. another month - 2 months, or what. How do I know it's safe and he's ready
: Thanks for your help
What caused the laminitis in the first place? If the cause is not known, and not properly addressed, putting this horse to grass might be a mistake. Also, feeding grain to laminitic horses is generally not done. Protein does not cause laminitis except perhaps when in extreme excess. It's more about carbohydrates.
My website might be of help. www.safergrass.org
Katy