HORSE owners in the South are being urged to share vital information to support a national study into the equine disease laminitis by the Animal Health Trust and the Royal Veterinary College.

CARE is the first and largest web-based equine study in Britain. and aims to find how common laminitis is – and which equine lifestyle factors affect its development.

Members will be asked to submit regular information about their equines’ health and management online.

Participation is open to all types and breeds of horses and ponies, no matter what size or age, or whether or not they have ever had equine laminitis.

The complex disease which affects the structure and correct function of the horse’s foot, resulting in debilitating pain. It can affect any horse regardless of age, size or breed.

Launched on National CARE Day last month, the study is open to people to sign up for until August.

According to the Animal Health Trust’s Dee Pollard, who is also spokesman for the Royal Veterinary College: “Equine laminitis is ranked as one of the top health concerns by both owners and vets.

“Most horse owners will have either had experience of laminitis themselves or will know of someone who has. Laminitis is a major welfare concern because affected horses are much more likely to have multiple recurrent episodes, which can be life-threatening.

“Despite this, a knowledge gap still exists regarding the true frequency of the condition in Britain, as well as how to best prevent it.”

The study, to be funded by World Horse Welfare and supported by Rossdales Equine Hospital, is asking all owners to share images and video footage on the CARE website and on social media, encouraging all of their friends and supporters to register for CARE.

Dee said: “We need a collaborative effort by all horse owners, professionals and researchers to both raise awareness about laminitis and, in time, to help make early recognition of laminitis less deceptive.”

For details visit www. careaboutlaminitis.org.uk