The present invention generally relates to various methods for treating the laminitis syndrome in animals. These benefits are obtained by administering to the animals a composition containing an .alpha.-adrenergic antagonist that does not substantially cross the blood brain barrier. In one embodiment, the .alpha.-adrenergic antagonist is domperidone. The domperidone can be administered to the animal either orally, subcutaneously, or intramuscularly and can be used to treat animals suffering from symptoms of laminitis
