17/05/2026
This spring has been exceptionally green, and we’re also seeing an exceptionally high number of laminitis cases. The two are not unrelated.
For many owners, especially those on traditional livery yards, it can feel like an impossible balancing act. Grass needs to be restricted or, in many cases, removed completely, but horses still need movement, enrichment, and the company of other horses.
None of these are luxuries.
They are essential for the physical and emotional well-being of the horse. Successful laminitis management should not just be about taking something away, but finding a solution that keeps the horse safe while still allowing them to live like a horse as much as possible. Track systems, surfaced areas, soaked hay, careful grazing management, companionship, and encouraging natural movement can all make a huge difference. It isn’t always easy, especially when yard setups are not designed with this in mind, but the conversation needs to keep moving beyond “just take them off the grass”.
Horses need protection from laminitis, but they also need movement, choice, and company.
This is Lydia, one of our clients who lives on a track system with three other horses. Her human has done a great job of putting together a track system in a small area using mud mats and jelka mats. Their track does a good job of keeping the horses moving and socialising whilst removing them from grass. It's simple, temporary as it's rented land, and it works!
