Recent studies at The University of Queensland, School of Veterinary Science strongly indicate that during the preliminary stage of laminitis, the hoof is in a state of vasodilation. If this state of increased blood concentration is allowed to continue until it reaches the lamellar tissues, the physiological factors that trigger laminitis proceed unchecked. If the hoof is placed in a state of vasoconstriction during the preliminary stage, full-blown laminitis does not occur. This is very strong evidence that a proactive health care approach, focused on keeping the hooves as cool as possible, is prudent for a horse in danger of developing laminitis. EQUINE LAMINITIS: CURRENT CONCEPTS OF INNER HOOF WALL ANATOMY, PHYSIOLOGY AND PATHOPHYSIOLOGY , by Christopher C. Pollitt, BVSc, Ph.D.., Australian Laminitis Research Unit