Founder (Laminitis)

Indications:

  Sore in both  front feet, reluctant to move, and/or bounding pulse to the foot.   The horse may or may not have the typical founder stance, with both front feet planted firmly on the ground out in front of the normal position, and the hind legs placed well under the body.  It  can appear  as if the horse is suffering from hind limb problems.

First aid:  Clean out the feet if possible.   Remove any rich feed, like grain or alfalfa hay, from the stall.  If possible, standing the horse in cool wet sand is helpful.

Information for the Vet:   Tell your veterinarian of any predisposing causes  such as recently getting into the feed bin, changes to feed, recent diarrhea, recent colic, or other illness, and your horse’s current symptoms.  Call veterinarian immediately and say it is an emergency.  ** Every minute is important in preventing serious damage.**  Wait for the veterinarian to call back.   Be aware of what medications you have available, and when your veterinarian returns the call give the symptoms over the phone and await instructions.