Boehringer Ingelheim, who is behind the Care About Cushing’s scheme (offering support for owners with an equine diagnosed with Pituitary Pars Intermedia Dysfunction (PPID) also known as Cushing's, or more information for those with a horse or pony with suspected PPID), have updated their scheme to a more focused testing schedule. It still offers a FREE diagnostic test for PPID, just during specific months for more accurate testing, and have also included a second FREE test as a dose-checker once treatment has been started.
From February 2026, the initial FREE ACTH (hormone) blood testing is available during the Spring (March & April) and Autumn (September & October), which are he best months to help assess both laminitis and confirm diagnosis.
• Spring (March–April) - helps assess laminitis risk
• Autumn (September–October) - most accurate time for diagnosis
NEW Dose Checker Test (FREE): The new free dose-checker test is is now available 4-6 weeks after starting treatment to make sure your horse is on the correct dose early on. Their research highlighted that around a third of PPID cases started on medication may not be undertaking the recommended dose-checker test to confirm whether the dose their horse is on is optimal for that individual. It is important to ensure the dose is correct for each case as part of ongoing PPID management.
Ongoing support still includes:
• One FREE monitoring test per year (Spring or Autumn)
• Digital tracking tools
• Educational resources
• Reminder alerts
You will need a voucher code for the free lab tests which the practice can generate. Please request this on booking your appointment or during your appointment with your vet so we can ensure it is submitted with the blood sample.
Please note: The voucher covers the lab fee, visit fees and sampling costs still apply. Do try to book when we are in your area on one of our reduced call out area days, and see if anyone else needs a visit on your yard to split the call-out cost, alternatively you can bring your horse down to the hospital for blood to be taken.
If you have any queries or concerns regarding your horse, either regarding on going treatment or a suspicion they may have Cushing's, please do not hesitate to contact us on 01622 813700 and ask to speak to one of our vets.
For more information on Care About Cushing's scheme, follow the link HERE to their website's helpful FAQ page.