Veteran survey seeks to improve understanding of PPID

Feed manufacturer, Spillers, urges owners of equines over the age of 15 to complete this new survey to help them better understand the needs of elderly horses

If you own an equine over the age of 15 – particularly one with pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction (PPID), a new survey has been introduced to help vets and feed manufacturers better understand the condition and how best to manage it. PPID, also known as Cushing’s, can be linked to a range of ailments, including laminitis, weight loss, delayed moulting and a long, curly coat.

The survey’s being conducted by the University of Melbourne, Australia, in conjunction with the Waltham Equine Studies Group, Spillers, Queensland University of Technology, the Royal Veterinary College, Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica and the Liphook Equine Hospital. It’s a major part of a new project to improve our understanding of what causes PPID to help improve diagnosis, treatment and management.

The online survey’s anonymous and will provide invaluable information to further the project and improve the welfare of equines suffering from PPID in the future.

“The survey will provide valuable information to help improve the healthcare and management of PPID horses,” said Clare Barfoot RNutr, Marketing and Research and Development Director at Spillers. “It’ll also give us a clearer insight into current levels of knowledge amongst horse owners and how best to provide practical, targeted information on PPID.

“We’re proud to be involved with collaborations that bring together world-leading equine veterinary, nutrition and research experts interested in working on healthcare in the older horse, and we’re committed to continuing to undertake work that helps support the wellbeing, performance and longevity of senior horses.”

For more information, visit spillers-feeds.com and to take the survey click here.