At Avon Ridge Equine Veterinary Services, we’re committed to staying at the forefront of the management and prevention of laminitis. That commitment is exactly why we are proud to be the first equine veterinary practice in Western Australia to offer a rapid, horse-side insulin test — available exclusively to our clients.

Laminitis prevention relies on timely, informed decision-making. One of the longstanding challenges in managing horses at metabolic risk has been the delay between blood sampling and receiving laboratory results. In many cases, those delays can slow down critical management changes at a time when early intervention matters most.

This new stall-side testing capability allows us to assess circulating insulin levels during the same visit, rather than days later. The test is quick, minimally invasive, and performed alongside your horse, allowing results to be interpreted immediately within the context of their clinical examination and history.

Why Rapid Results Make a Difference

Insulin concentration plays a central role in laminitis risk. When results take days to return, opportunities for early intervention can be missed. Having access to reliable, on-the-spot information allows us to:

• Make immediate, evidence-based management decisions

• Reduce delays in implementing dietary or management changes

• Provide clearer guidance and reassurance for owners at the time of assessment

This rapid turnaround is particularly valuable during high-risk periods, when insulin levels can change quickly and early action can significantly improve outcomes.

Careful Use and Thoughtful Interpretation

While this horse-side insulin test is a powerful addition to our diagnostic toolbox, it is not suitable for every horse or every scenario. Insulin results are influenced by multiple factors, including feeding status, testing conditions, and the broader clinical picture. Using the test appropriately — and interpreting it accurately — requires experience and a thorough understanding of equine metabolic physiology.

We will always determine whether this test is appropriate for your horse and explain how the results will be used to guide clinical decision-making. In some cases, alternative testing strategies may still be recommended.

Advancing Laminitis Prevention in Western Australia

Being the first practice in Western Australia to introduce this technology reflects our ongoing dedication to advancing laminitis prevention and metabolic care. We continually invest in new diagnostic tools, training, and research-driven approaches so we can offer our clients informed, practical, and timely veterinary guidance — always with your horse’s long-term welfare at the centre of every decision.

Learn More — Laminitis Care with Avon Ridge Equine

If your horse has had laminitis, is insulin-dysregulated, or you’re simply worried about risk, our Laminitis Care Program is designed to give you clarity, structure and calm, supportive guidance. Every horse is assessed individually, and you’ll leave with a clear plan tailored to your horse, your property and your goals — with ongoing review as things change.

Dr Tania Sundra has spent many years working with horses affected by laminitis and metabolic disease and is frequently contacted by veterinarians across Australia and overseas for input into complex cases. Our approach is thorough, welfare-focused and grounded in current research, but always delivered with compassion and practicality — because we know how emotionally challenging laminitis can be for owners.

If you’d like to learn more about how we support horses at risk of, or recovering from, laminitis, you’re very welcome to get in touch — we’re here to help you feel informed, supported and confident in the decisions you make for your horse.