Granby Vet Offers Spring Horse Health Tip

There are many things horse owners need to do to keep their equine pals happy and healthy but there's one important thing to keep a close eye on during the spring.

Diet.

As the temperatures warm and vegetation begins to grow, horses are susceptible to overeating, which is one cause of a very painful condition known as Laminitis, according to Dr. Christopher Weber of Salmon Brook Veterinary Hospital.

Laminitis is the separation of the horse's hoof from its foot. Laminitis can also be caused by infection, in which case a trip to the vet is in order.

Weber warns horse owners to watch for overgrazing.

"The biggest risk is if they are already overweight," Weber said. "We really need to treat the horse like you would your own body."

Weber also recommends against a sudden increase in activity following the winter months and to make sure your animals are up to date on all vaccinations.