Hidden harm

Help your horse enjoy the warmer summer months safely, with tips from The Insurance Emporium

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THE long-awaited summer months bring much joy to horse owners around the UK - but the warm weather when followed by periods of rain can cause sugar spikes in the grass, increasing the risk of laminitis developing for some horses and ponies.

This painful condition occurs when the sensitive laminae tissues in a horse's hooves become inflamed. These tissues can weaken and become damaged, which can result in the pedal bone moving within the hoof. Signs of laminitis can include lameness, leaning back onto the heels to take the weight off the toes, increased digital pulses and shifting weight when resting. Laminitis is a medical emergency and suspected cases must be seen by a vet as a matter of urgency.