In this research, scientists aimed to evaluate the prevalence and management practices concerning overweight or ‘over-conditioned’ horses and ponies in Maryland, noting that obesity-related issues such as laminitis were more common in these animals. The study, which involved 93 farm operators answering an online survey, found the majority had at least one over-conditioned equine and suggested that more efficient measures to manage weight in horses and ponies are needed.

Objectives of the Study

• This research was targeted to understand the prevalence and management of over-conditioned ponies and horses in Maryland.
• The term ‘over-conditioned’ in this context refers to horses and ponies which have a body condition score of 4 or 5, indicating they are overweight or obese.
• The study also aimed to characterize the weight control methods used for these animals and to evaluate how these practices affect the operations of horse farms.

Methods Used in the Study

• All licensed horse operators in Maryland were invited to participate in the online study.
• 93 operators, representing a total of 238 ponies and 1290 horses, completed the survey.

Results

• 96% of operators reported managing at least one over-conditioned pony or horse.
• The survey revealed that 41% of ponies and 40% of horses sampled were over-conditioned.
• Photo Over-conditioned ponies had a higher incidence of laminitis and required more intensive management.
• The most common management measure adopted for ponies was dry lotting, even though it required more time and maintenance as compared to grazing horses.
• Operators reported the most satisfaction with exercise as a weight control measure, followed by dry lots. The least satisfactory methods were grazing muzzles and medication.

Implications of the Study

• The study concluded that a significant proportion of horses and ponies in Maryland are over-conditioned.
• Overweight equines not only present more health issues such as laminitis but also incur additional costs for operators- an average increase of $434.18 per year per over-conditioned equine.
• Alternative or additional measures to prevent over-conditioning need to be developed and implemented to improve animal welfare and reduce labor and maintenance costs.