Hey Parkypuss,

One of my vets Melissa Shelton, from years ago got into essential oils and cured laminitis in one horse. Her website is oilyvet or animalEO; I typically don't drive traffic off this site but there is too much to copy/paste and I think you would benefit from contacting directly or reading up. I would also google 'essential oils for laminitis in horses' and just read all the hits that come up. Please let us know if you find something that works for your pony and report back!

Hi Parkypuss,

So sorry to hear of your pony's laminitis. We have dealt with this problem a couple times with an old (27 years) burro whom we love to pieces. It is so distressing to see your pets in discomfort and pain.

Our burros get this condition when they eat too many sugar laden things - mostly mesquite beans or other plants and trees that are high in carbohydrates. So, the first thing we do is get them away, as much as possible from those types of things. Our vet has given us bute (butazolidine), a good pain reliever and anti inflammatory to use when it is really bad. But, the very best thing we have found is Softride boots for horses. They are an actual boot with gel inserts that fit over the hooves of the affected feet. Although it is a little comical to watch the burro become accustomed to his new "shoes", you can tell almost immediately that he is much more comfortable.

There is a website, but when we ordered a pair, we called and talked to very well-informed and pleasant people. They even sent us two different sizes to try with only one charge - we, of course, sent one pair back. Now for the downside - they cost more than any shoes I own! But, I and my sweet burro, highly recommend them. And, you will always have them if it is necessary to employ them again.

Hope this helps and your pony is soon galloping around.