Lots of laminitis and abcesses this year or my imagination?

[saddlediva]

I have heard of so many horses coming down with laminitis and abcesses or just abcesses this year. Does it
seem worse than usual or do I just know unlucky horses? Any thoughts?

[parkerfarrier service]

Sounds unlucky, but is certainly linked to some unfavorable conditions. Laminitis is so variable as to the causes, but I did have a recent case that was linked to Cushing's. That horse is doing great. Personally, I rarely encounter abscesses...mostly happens among Barefoot horses or Horses with Flat soles. Proper farrier care and proper nailing goes a long way. 

Some laminitis info & pictures for anyone interested... http://parkerfarrierservice.com/laminitis_founder.html

Here is a nice checklist, feel free to take it and pass it around the barn. Click the pic to see the large-size original.

<a href="http://i1130.photobucket.com/albums/m523/parkerfarrierservice/laminitis.jpg"></a>

[SEC]

Probably bad luck

[Admin 1]

Thanks Seth for the info .....

[saddlediva]

Thank you, Seth. You always have terrific information.

[parkerfarrier service]

Your welcome

[smhill]

I think that a lot of the arenas in our area are extra hard due to an extended drought.  At our farm in Wellington we had a typical rainy season in 2007, but haven't had one since then.  Even if you have irrigation, unless you have a top of the line irrigation system the sprinklers are only watering the cushion, not touching the hard base.  My arena feels like concrete these days except when it rains, riding on grass only.