Equine laminitis is a devastating condition impacting the equine population for decades, but despite research and development, progress has not advanced in reaching a solution. Most recent research however has indicated that there might be a connection between the bacterial species present in the digestive tract and overall health in the horse.
Horse trotting out for lameness check
Recent research indicates a possible connection between bacteria in the horse's digestive tract and his overall health.
© 2012 by Shutterstock
In many studies regarding metabolic and laminitic concerns in the horse, an imbalanced microbiome has been noted in fecal cultures. The most evident problems is an overabundance of lactic acid bacteria, Lactobacillus, and Group D Streptococcus. Despite this being a consistent finding in research, complete determination of the 'cause or effect' relation has not been established.
Considering this research, it is quite possible that the altered or imbalanced microbiome is directly responsible for the negative effects seen with laminitis in the horse. It could be an effect of the condition or a direct cause, but theoretically by manipulating it, results could be evident.
Dr. Schell has explored the fecal microbiome in metabolic challenged horses in the past, demonstrating that a true dysbiosis does exist and that through dietary and supplement interventions, it is possible to create a positive shift in that microbiome. Clinical improvement is often noted when the microbiome is influenced in this manner.
In this study, Dr. Schell is recruiting a small group of previously diagnosed laminitic horses, ideally with chronic metabolic or pasture associated laminitis. The horses can be located anywhere within the United States as long as the owner is willing to collect and ship fecal samples for evaluation.
As a part of this ongoing study, the microbiome will be evaluated on a broad level and supplementation, along with dietary changes will be made to further assess the impact on the microbiome and clinical improvement in the patient.
Patients enrolled in the study will receive at no charge:
- History and radiograph evaluation with comments
- Dietary evaluations
- Fecal cultures
- Dietary supplements
If you have a horse impacted by laminitis, please contact us promptly to enroll in this study and help to further our knowledge and approach to laminitis.
To inquire further, please contact Dr. Tom Schell via email at tschelldvm@gmail.com
Further information on the study can be found at:
Nouvelle Research, Inc. is the manufacturer of the Cur-OST line of curcumin based equine supplements that target the inflammatory response. Dr. Tom Schell has been an avid researcher of inflammation, applying and conducting research with the goal of developing new options to help maintain health in the horse. For more information please visit our website at www.curost.com or by calling 1-800-476-4702.