THE ORAL SUGAR TEST OPTION
During my four decades as a practicing veterinarian, my clients would often ask me, “Is it safe to let my horse out in the pasture? Will grazing cause him to founder?”
These questions are rooted in deep concern for the welfare of their horses. After decades of study (see “Progress and Challenges,” page 37), we now know that the sugars in pasture grasses can greatly increase the risk that certain horses will develop laminitis, the painful inflammation of the connective tissues within the foot. And we know why: Consuming even “normal” amounts of sugars and starches greatly increases the amount of insulin in the blood of these horses. We know that high levels of insulin are a direct cause of pasture-associated laminitis.
Fortunately, we have also learned that pasture-associated laminitis can be prevented in at-risk horses with dietary management. It takes work to manage these horses---by putting them in dry lots along with an exercise program, fitting them with grazing muzzles, giving them special feed and taking other measures---but with effort, they can often be kept healthy and sound
