single learning post

EMS (IR) and PPID; Diagnosis and Management

Session 1 – Metabolic Disorders in Horses

Equine metabolic syndrome (EMS) vs. pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction (PPID). What are they, what are the causes, why is there so much diagnostic confusion between the two? At the end of the lecture, the attendee should understand how to distinguish between EMS and PPID, what does and does not cause laminitis in horses with metabolic disorders, and how management and treatment play a role in laminitis prevention.

Session 2 – Nutrition Considerations for Horses with Metabolic Disorders

What hay is best, when can my horse graze, the effect of pasture and hay carbohydrates on insulin, how to supplement, how to spot bogus treatments and supplements. At the end of the lecture, the attendee should understand the importance of forage testing, what is and is not “safe,” the concept of mineral balancing, and how to wade through the myriad supplement market and come out with more knowledge and money still in their pocket!

Kathleen Gustafson, PhD is a research scientist in the field of nutrition and neuroscience. She became involved with the Equine Cushing’s and Insulin Resistance (ECIR) Group when her Missouri Fox Trotter, “Joe,” developed insulin resistance and laminitis. Following the management protocols of the ECIR group, Joe made a full recovery and was restored to good health and complete soundness. Impressed by the ECIR group’s focus on evidence based science she first volunteered as a responder on the ECIR Outreach Group and now serves as a director and research advisor for the nonprofit. She has over 70 peer-reviewed publications, national and international patents, and served as both principle and co-
investigator on clinical trials sponsored by the National Institutes of Health. She has co-authored papers with Dr. Eleanor Kellon on topics related to metabolic disorders in horses.

Dr. Gustafson began studying equine nutrition in 2005 and is the owner of Great Plains Forage Balance. She maintains a forage database and consults with owners, farriers, and veterinarians so they may formulate a comprehensive and practical feeding plan based on nutrient requirements.