Frustrated by a lack of consistency in diagnosing degenerative suspensory ligament desmitis (DSLD) in the early stages, Jeanette Mero and Janet Scarlett took a close look at the case records of 45 Peruvian Paso horses. Nearly half of these horses had earlier been diagnosed with a DSLD injury that was confirmed by a histological examination of the ligament tissue.

If you haven’t yet read the report by the 2007 Lameness Research Meeting and Panel, we’d suggest visiting the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) Web site and downloading a copy. The report includes some food for thought for everyone in the hoof-care industry — not only in its recommendations but in how they were arrived at.

The importance of podiatry as a part of equine veterinary practice is well recognised. Cooperation and the symbiotic relationship between the veterinary and farrier professions continue to grow and improve.