Laminitis is a painful and potentially devastating disease of the horse's feet and while many horses and ponies recover from an episode, for others it can end their career, or even their life. It is a worry to owners, farriers and veterinary surgeons alike, so this valuable guide aims to shed light on this most unpredictable and traditionally misunderstood disease, offering information in an accessible manner.

The facts and diagrams based on x-rays imparted in this guide, from defining laminitis to diagnostics, causes, medical treatment and prevention, will help you formulate a rational approach to the prevention and treatment of laminitis.

Dr David Ramey is a practising veterinary surgeon who specialises in all aspects of equine health care, including surgery, lameness and medicine. He is also the author of Navicular Syndrome Explained, in the same series.