Lecture 'CPL in draft horses' by Marieke Brys

Chronic progressive lymphedema (CPL) is a condition with a significant impact on the health and welfare of the current draft horse population. Clinical signs are severe and primarily involve the progressive swelling of the distal portions of the legs, which is accompanied by scaling, marked dermal fibrosis, and the development of skinfolds and nodules, which are often complicated by secondary infections. Current treatment and management options aim only at slowing down the disease’s progression. Despite the severity of this condition, many uncertainties regarding its etiology and pathogenesis still persist to date. Understanding and recognizing the clinical signs, as well as managing CPL, therefore, remain major challenges in current veterinary practice.

Last year Trekpaard.net organised an info day on this subject with Marieke Brys as keynote speaker. The event was attended by over 150 draft horse breeders and owners from Belgium and the Netherlands. On August 3rd we bring this lecture to the UK!

Keynote speaker: Marieke Brys
Veterinarian, Assistant - PhD Researcher Veterinary Pathology
at Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University - Belgium

During this lecture, you will learn more about what CPL is and what is known so far about the condition. Management is the most important factor and many practical tips and tricks will be provided.
The scientific research completed in mid-2021 will be followed up in the coming years. The results of the past year and the new plans will be presented and can already provide a better understanding of CPL.

Open Yard Visit

The lecture is hosted at Studfarm "Heart Tree’s Heavy Horses" in Leicester where as well Shire horses as Belgian Draft Horses are bred. During their Open Yard Visit (free entry for all from 11am) you can meet their stallions, mares and foals. A unique opportunity to learn a whole lot more about these magnificent horses.