29/07/2025
One Veterinarian's view on our founders work.
I first met KC La Pierre in 2009 after my quest for a deeper understanding of the equine foot led me to his book “The Chosen Road.” I knew nothing at the time of the path that initial lecture would open in front of me. Listening to his theories on the pathogenesis of chronic founder made me rethink my prior knowledge, understanding, and formal veterinary training. Later, I had the privilege of working on a project with him where we put those theories to the test. One by one we observed histologic evidence of structural changes in the coronary band and ungular cartilages in horses with varying degree of founder. These changes solidified for me the importance of the coronary band, ungular cartilages, and the Ungular Cartilage Suspension Theory on the position of the distal phalanx within the hoof capsule. My hope is that this book finds its way into the hands of those willing to open their minds beyond the small box the horse industry and veterinary medicine has placed laminitis and founder into. KC La Pierre looks beyond the simple mechanics to include the biomechanical, physiological, and kinetic forces on the equine digit. His dedication to the equine foot and his insights on its function can improve the lives of so many horses.
Kristi Fox Jackson, DVM, AVCA, ADAEP
