Morris Animal Foundation is awarding grants dedicated to enhancing the well-being of domesticated horses, ponies, donkeys and mules.

“We are excited to fund these research proposals that will advance equid health,” says Dr. Kathy Tietje, chief program officer at Morris Animal Foundation. “Through these grants, we aim to elevate the quality of life, ensuring a brighter, healthier future for horses, ponies, donkeys and mules.”

Three of the 10 research projects that are being funded by Morris Animal Foundation are related to the distal limb. They are listed below.

• Angela Gaesser, University of Pennsylvania: “What Role Does Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Pathway Play in the Pathogenesis and Treatment of Equine Osteoarthritis.” Researchers will study if a signaling pathway contributes to the progression of osteoarthritis and if a novel treatment targeting this pathway can help affected horses.

• Edward J. Knowles, Royal Veterinary College, United Kingdom: “Insights into the Pathogenesis of Equine Metabolic Syndrome: Plasma Amino Acid and Acylcarnitine Profiles in Ponies with Insulin Dysregulation.” Researchers will learn more about insulin resistance and laminitis in horses and develop cost-effective tools to monitor these patients better.

• Thilo Pfau, University of Calgary, Canada: “A Team-Based Approach to Monitoring Gait Symmetry: Hoof Care Providers, Horse Owners and Veterinarians Working Toward Prevention of Lameness.” Researchers will partner with hoof care providers, veterinarians and owners to evaluate the feasibility of using video technology to monitor horse gait changes.

Morris Animal Foundation says its mission is to bridge science and resources to advance the health of animals. Founded in 1948 and headquartered in Denver, Colo., it’s one of the largest nonprofit animal health research organizations in the world, funding nearly $160 million in more than 3,000 critical animal health studies to date across a broad range of species.