G95-1239 Managing to Prevent Equine Developmental Orthopedic Diseases

Authors

Kathleen P. Anderson, University of Nebraska - LincolnFollow

Date of this Version

1995

Document Type

Article

Comments

© 1995, The Board of Regents of the University of Nebraska on behalf of the University of Nebraska–Lincoln Extension. All rights reserved.

Abstract

This NebGuide describes and discusses management techniques to prevent orthopedic disease in horses.

Equine Developmental Orthopedic Disease (DOD) is a significant problem facing today's horse breeders. A serious case of DOD can render a young horse essentially worthless due to crippling lameness. There is continuous debate as to the interplay of nutrition, management, genetics and exercise on the incidence of bone disease in young, growing horses. In the early stages, growing horses may appear unaffected by the disease, but may later develop lameness and eventually chronic arthritis. Recent research has identified many factors which will aid breeders to minimize the incidence of DOD.