Hoof Abnormalities Research Articles

Effects of Body Indices and Shoeing on Hoof Morphometry among Sudanese Country-Bred Polo Horses in Nigeria

Several factors influence hoof size which largely determine the normal function of the equine limbs. The effects of shoeing and body indices on hoof morphometry among Sudanese country-bred polo horses in Nigeria were evaluated in the present study. Apparently healthy, shod/barefooted Sudanese country-bred mares without hoof abnormalities were randomly selected and included in the present study. As body indices, we measured the height at withers, heart-girth, body length, and body weight; as hoof parameters, we measured the toe length, solar length, hoof width, and dorsal and ventral hoof wall width on all limbs. Pearson correlation analysis and the independent sample T test were applied for data analysis. The mean height, body weight, heart girth and body length of the Sudanese country-bred horses were 1589.5 ± 56.0 mm, 430.8 ± 42.9 kg, 1758.8±65.31mm and 1649.4±50.03mm respectively which were not significantly different between the shod and barefooted. The dorsal hoof wall width and the hoof solar length and width between the shod and barefooted groups differed statistically significantly (p<0.05). In Sudanese country-bred mares, there was a strong positive correlation that was different significantly between the heart-girth, body length, and body weight. Hoof morphometry and body indices showed a strong positive correlation. The most important ratios relating to hoof size differences between horses with shoes and those without were the hoof index, length, and width to body measurement ratios. According to this study, Sudanese Country-bred horses' hoof morphometry is significantly impacted by shoeing and body indices.

Community Science Strategies Reveal Distributional Patterns of Treponeme-Associated Hoof Disease in Washington Elk (Cervus canadensis)

Treponeme-associated hoof disease (TAHD) is an emerging disease of conservation concern in elk (Cervus canadensis) in the Northwest USA. Elk with TAHD exhibit characteristic hoof lesions that are often accompanied by lameness and limping. The gold standard approach traditionally used for infectious disease surveillance is laboratory confirmation, which for TAHD is a histologic examination of abnormal elk hooves submitted by wildlife agencies. Diagnostic evaluation affords certainty in confirming TAHD; however, these examinations are also labor and resource intensive, and therefore, not conducive to the collection of sufficient data for epidemiologic investigations. In response, two community science (CS) surveillance strategies have been implemented in Washington State: public observations of limping elk from a web-based reporting tool and hunter reports of hoof abnormalities on harvested elk. Surveillance using CS strategies can be implemented widely and may be useful for describing broad distributional patterns of TAHD, despite their unknown relationship to laboratory-confirmed cases. We described and compared the spatial–temporal distribution of TAHD in western Washington game management units (GMU) using the two CS strategies to assess congruences and discrepancies between observed patterns. We used spatial scan statistics to identify possible core-affected and newly emerging areas at the GMU level. Lastly, we contrasted CS observations against confirmed case data to examine possible delays in TAHD detection and co-occurrence among surveillance strategies. We found public observations of limping elk often predated TAHD confirmations in GMUs by several years, while hunter-reported abnormalities predated confirmations in GMUs by several months. High co-occurrence between the presence of apparent and confirmed cases under different surveillance strategies further supports the use of CS sources. This study capitalizes on wide-reaching CS data to provide new and complementary epidemiological information that can help guide future surveillance, management, and research efforts for this novel elk hoof disease.

Cases of Abnormality of Horse Hooves (Equus caballus) In Santosa Stable Kendal-Central Java

Background: Horse hoof abnormalities are one of the most frequent disorders in horses and the leading causes affecting the productivity of horses. Purpose: Explanation of the percentage of abnormalities of Andalusian, Warmblood, and Generasi horses in Santosa Stable. Method: Qualitative methods in this study used a qualitative research approach case study. Results: Hoof abnormalities occurred in 6 horses (1 stallion and 1 Andalusian mare, 1 Warmblood mare, 2 G4 stallions, and 1 G3 horse). Cases of hoof crack (31.25%) and hoof rings (12.5%). Conclusion: Hoof crack is the most common abnormality found in horses in Santosa Stable

Comparison of Thermographic Imaging and Other Diagnostic Techniques in Diagnosis of Cattle with Laminitis

Background: Lameness results in major economic losses on dairy farms. The proportion of lameness in cows are between 4-55%, the origin of 90% lameness are caused by foot diseases. Hoof abnormalities such as laminitis are major contributors to lameness. Aim of the study, compared with thermographic imaging (IRT) and radiographic, magnetic resonans (MR), computer tomography (CT), histopathological analysis on the diagnosis of laminitis.Materials, Methods & Results: Preliminary, the animals (20 Holstein-Fresian) were selected by lameness examination for evaluation of the for any obvious signs of disease. The animals were examined when rising and walking of the free stalls. Walking was very painful and clinical symptoms of general distress become present for laminitic group. The cows were scored on a 1 to 5 scale for their locomotion (1 = normal locomotion; 5 = severely lame). Thermographic examinations were performed the all animals after the routine clinical examination methods. The infrared images were taken from the dorsal view of all hoovesto monitor the temperature of coronary band. All images were scanned using a hand-held portable infrared camera (Wahl, Thermal Imager HSI3000 Series), which was calibrated to ambient temperature and absorptive conditions. Incentives radiological examinations, dorso-palmar and latero-medial shooting was done for using of (Regius Model 110 Konica, Minolta) 70 kV and 30 mAs for each claws. MRI images of all isolated digits were performed at the Department of Radiology, by using Siemens Symphony Erlangen, Germany. Continuous series of transversal, sagital and dorsoplantar scan were obtained from all digit. Computer tomography (CT), isolated digits were performed at the Imaging Department of Radiology, by using Siemens Symphony Erlangen, Germany. CT scanner was used to obtain contiguous slices from the region of the proximal sesamoid bones to the toe. Anterior side (laminar and perilaminar tissues) of the claws was uncovered with electric wheel. Tissue samples were taken 10% buffered formaldehyde solution after establishing a routine laboratory procedure following the prepared paraffin blocks 5 micrometers thick sections with hematoxylineosin dye method according to the staining. It was finally examined by light microscopy. The computer soft ware of the infrared thermal camera showed increased local temperature, by 0.5-1.5°C, between the normal and suspected regions for laminitic cases. Clinically, animals suspected of laminitis were showed general stiffness, lameness during walking difficulty. Examination of the claws was demonstrated of rings and plump appearance was evident in paries ungulae. The main damage was seen during trimming of the sole from no hemorrhages or discoloration of control group. The transversal MRI images provided excellent depictions of anatomical structures when compared to their corresponding pictures. Identifiable anatomic structure was labeled on the line drawings of the limb sections and on the corresponding CT images. Twenty out of 30 claws (65%) were shown laminitis statistical with histopathological examination. In histopathological examination; mononuclear cells and neutrophil granulocytes infilrations and edema, haemorrhagia, mild hyperemia in the lamellar region was remarkable in laminitic cases.Discussion: As a results, thermographic examination may have potential as a detection tool for laminitis. MR transversal images provided excellent depiction of anatomical structures and many biometric research in the bovine hoof can be easily investigated. The usefulness of IRT, MRI, CT in evaluating laminitis in the acute patient remains stil open. The use of diagnostic techniques during the initial active phase of laminitis as a means to increase the understanding of the disease and also serves as a justification for the development of an experiment involving live cows induces laminitis.

A study on hoof abnormalities among working donkeys presented to veterinary clinics in and around Mekelle, Ethiopia

A study was conducted from November 2013 to May 2014 in three selected sites in and around Mekelle town, Ethiopia. The objectives of the study were to estimate the prevalence of hoof abnormalities in working donkeys and to assess associated risk factors with its occurrence. Severity of lameness was also assessed in relation to types of the abnormalities. A total of 415 working donkeys were randomly selected from those donkeys that visited the stationary and mobile clinics in the study area. History taking and thorough clinical examination were used as a tool to conduct the study. The overall prevalence of hoof abnormality was found to be 14.7%. Trauma was found to be the major (52.5%) type of hoof problem, followed by hoof over growth (19.7%), hoof crack (14.8%) and thrush (13.1%).The occurrence of hoof abnormality was significantly associated with body condition scoring ( p 0.05) with the occurrence of the hoof abnormality. Hoof abnormalities identified had resulted in Grade I to IV lameness. Grade 4 lameness was mainly (94.7%) caused by trauma. Grade 3 lameness was caused by trauma (72.2%) and thrush (27.8%). Grade 2 was caused by hoof crack (50.0%), thrush (33.3%) and hoof over growth (16.7%). Grade 1 lameness was due to hoof overgrowth (61.1%) and hoof crack (33.3%) and trauma (5.6%). Generally, it was identified that hoof abnormalities due to trauma, thrush, hoof over growth and hoof crack were a health problem of working donkeys in the study area. Community awareness enhancement on prevention and management of hoof abnormalities is recommended. Keywords: Clinical examination; Hoof abnormalities; Lameness; Prevalence; Risk factors

Cow- and herd-level factors associated with lameness in small-scale grazing dairy herds in Brazil

This cross-sectional study aimed to assess lameness occurrence and to identify the associated risk factors in small-scale grazing dairy herds. Forty four farms (mean lactating herd size was 42 cows, SD = 11.2, range: 28–74) located in the south of Brazil were visited twice, approximately 4 months apart, in 2015. Locomotion was scored in 1633 and 1836 cows at the first and second visit, respectively. Potential risk factors for lameness were assessed through inspection of cows and facilities, and a questionnaire for farmers about herd management practices. Multilevel logistic regressions, using herd as random effect, were fitted to investigate the cow-level risk factors for accumulated incident (not lame at the first visit but lame on the second), chronic (lame on both visits) and recovered (lame at the first visit but sound on the second) cases of lameness. A multilevel linear regression, using municipality as a random effect, was fitted for herd-level analysis. Cumulative lameness incidence between two visits (1110 cows in 41 herds) was 29.6% (range: 0–80); lameness prevalence (n = 44 herds) was 31% (10–70) and 35% (5–76) at the first and second visits, respectively. The odds of incident cases were greater in Holstein cows [odds ratio (OR) = 4.0, 95% confidence interval 2.1–7.6] compared with Jerseys, in cows in parities 2–3 (OR 2.5, 1.4–4.4) or >3 (OR 6.6, 3.3–13.1) relative to parity 1, in cows having a low body condition score (BCS) of 2–2.75 or 3 on the first visit (OR 2, 1.1–3.7), and in cows with observed hoof abnormalities (OR 2.5, 1.3–4.7). Similar associations were found for chronic cases, with Holstein and crossbred cows having greater odds of lameness, compared to Jersey, and chronic cases being more likely in cows with increasing parity, with BCS at first visit of 2–2.75, and with presence of hoof abnormalities. Jersey or crossbred cows (OR 3.2, 1.3–8.1) and cows in parity 1–2 (OR 3.6, 1.6–8.4) had higher probability of recovery from lameness. Having a herd composed of Holstein cows was associated with 13.5% (CI 4.3–22.8) greater incidence of lameness (n = 35). For every 1 km/h increase in the average speed of movement of the herd to or from milking, lameness incidence increased by 5% (CI 0.1–10). Given that the occurrence of lameness was high there is great opportunity to reduce lameness in this population. This study highlights some management and prevention practices that may reduce lameness in these grazing herds.

A Preliminary Review of Equine Hoof Management and the Client–Farrier Relationship in the United Kingdom

It is accepted that equine performance is directly influenced by hoof condition. Despite this, hoof abnormalities are the most frequent owner-reported cause of lameness and limited literature has evaluated hoof management practices. A survey was developed to establish the prevalence of hoof abnormalities in the UK, the corresponding routine treatments and to explore the client-farrier relationship. Of the respondents, 89% reported to have encountered hoof problems in the previous five years and routine use of hoof care products such as supplements and dressings was widespread. Whilst 96% of horses in the United Kingdom receive regular hoof care from a farrier, the client-farrier relationship has not previously been explored. It was found that 74% of respondents had worked with their farrier for more than two years; 41% however, had previously had difficulties finding a farrier they trusted. Of the respondents, 23% had a criticism of their farrier and 29% felt their farrier would have criticisms of their demeanour. It was suggested that both parties have a responsibility to one another in order to maintain an effective client-farrier relationship. Although certain supplements can be beneficial, scientific investigation is required to ascertain the efficacy of products such as hoof dressings on hoof growth and integrity. Furthermore, it would be of benefit to explore farrier and veterinary willingness to communicate and collaborate in order to provide optimal farriery. Cooperation between the professions has previously been highlighted as essential to therapeutic farriery but has not been investigated.

Welfare Status of Working Horses and Owners′ Perceptions of Their Animals

Simple SummaryAppropriate strategies aimed at improving the welfare of working horses should contemplate the assessment of welfare status, as well as the evaluation of the human–animal relationship within each geo-cultural context. We assessed and compared the welfare status of working horses in two administrative regions of Chile and explored the nature of the owner–horse relationship from the perspective of the owner. The overall prevalence of health problems and negative behavior responses was low. However, significant differences between regions exist in the presence of lesions and the person responsible for managing horseshoeing. Two differing views were found regarding the owners’ perception of their horse: predominantly affective or instrumental. Despite the instrumental perception predominantly residing in one region, the affective perception was widely shared by owners in each region. The findings suggest that Chilean working horses have a, generally, good welfare and that the development of an affective owner–horse relationship is possible. Additionally, the results suggest that affective and instrumental perceptions of these animals can coexist.Appropriate interventions to improve working equine welfare should be proposed according to scientific evidence that arises from different geo-cultural contexts. This study aims to assess and compare the welfare status of working horses in two administrative regions of Chile and to determine how owners perceive their horses. Horses’ welfare status was assessed through direct indicators (direct observation and clinical examination) and indirect indicators (an interview with the owner). Owners′ perceptions of their horses were determined through a discourse analysis of their statements. In total, 100 horses and 100 owners were assessed. Results showed a low prevalence of health problems and negative behavior responses among horses in the two regions evaluated. Significant associations were found between inadequate body condition and the absence of deworming, and between hoof abnormalities and a low frequency of shoeing. Between regions, significant differences were found in the presence of lesions and the person responsible for horseshoeing. In regards to the owners′ appreciations, two differing perceptions of working horses were found: a predominantly affective perception and a perception of the animal as a working instrument. Although the instrumental perception was more frequent in the Araucania region, the affective perception was widely shared by both owner populations. The results reveal a good welfare status in working horses and suggest that both affective and instrumental perceptions of these animals can coexist.

Clinical and haematological study of lactating cattle, reared around a thermal power plant, showing horn and hoof abnormalities

The present study was aimed to assess clinic-haematological changes in cows showing hoof and horn abnormalities, reared around Koradi Thermal Power Plant, Nagpur, Maharashtra (India). Hoof and horn abnormalities are usually attributed to selenium toxicity. Twenty cows were randomly selected within a radius of 5 km of thermal power plant. Blood, urine and milk samples were analyzed for haemato-biochemical changes. Also, the selenium level was estimated and compared with control samples taken from Deolapar Cattle Farm and Agriculture College Dairy Farm (located within the same agro-climatic conditions but away from the impact area of fly ash). Mean selenium value in blood of exposed animals was insignificantly higher than unexposed animals while selenium in urine and milk of exposed cows was significantly higher than control though within the permissible range. The haemato-biochemical parameters viz., haemoglobin, AST, ALT, serum creatinine and BUN of exposed cows were insignificantly less than control cows. Air, water, soil and fodder samples, collected from the study area, showed the selenium level of 3 ng m−3, 0.001±0.002 ppm, -0.593 ppm and 1.25±0.20 ppm, respectively. It appears that the selenium level in impact area has not reached to the level that may develop selenium toxicity like sloughing of horns, weakness and hoof deformity; and the symptoms observed are due to the factor other than selenium toxicity.

Histopathology of dairy cows' hooves with signs of naturally acquired laminitis

The purpose of this study was to investigate histological changes in dairy cows' hooves with or without injuries from naturally acquired laminitis. Cull cows with no clinical signs of hoof abnormalities (G1, n=9) and those with macroscopic lesions associated with laminitis without (G2, n=23) or with lameness (G3, n=7) were used in the study. After slaughter, samples of dermo-epidermal junctions of sole, axial and dorsal regions of the hoof were obtained and histologically processed using HE and PAS staining. Congestion, hemorrhage and inflammatory infiltrate in the dermis of sole, axial and dorsal regions were blindly and semiquantitatively evaluated by the same researcher. Inflammatory infiltrate was evaluated in the dermal laminae of axial and dorsal regions. The morphology of epidermal cells and the presence of irregularities in three regions of the basement membrane (BM) length were examined using PAS staining. Scores of lesions in different regions of the hoof in the same group and in different groups for each region of the hoof were compared using non-parametric analyses. Inflammatory infiltrate in the dermis of all regions of the hoof was detected in all groups with no significant statistical difference. Cows with no clinical signs of hoof abnormalities secondary to laminitis (G1) have inflammation scores and epidermal cell changes similar to those of groups with laminitis injuries, suggesting the existence of a prodromal phase for this disease in bovines. BM had irregularities with a variable intensity along its length, however, with no difference among groups. The pattern of BM irregularities found has not been reported so far and does not resemble the BM collapse described in horses and cattle with induced acute laminitis. Is it concluded that even in the absence of macroscopic hoof signs associated to laminitis, dairy cows have histological injuries compatible with inflammation of the dermo-epidermal junction as in affected animals. Basement membrane of cows with or without laminitis associated lesions had irregularities with an irregular distribution along its length which need to be further studied.

The effect of hoof abnormalities on sow behavior and performance

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of cracks in the outer hoof wall [CK], length differences between the medial and lateral toe of the hoof [TS], and over-grown toes [OG] on sow lactation performance and behavior. Sows' hooves were observed and assigned a severity score (1 to 3), or 0 for control sows. Lactation sow performance from 223 litters was collected over 2 experiments. Sow behavior was measured in experiment 1 and was scored continuously for 45min prior to and 1h post feeding (n=150). The ethogram contained 4 postures and a maximum of 4 behaviors within each posture. Performance and behavior data were analyzed using a multiple linear regression. All sows began the experiment with similar litter weights (P>0.15) and number of piglets/litter (P>0.15). A significant, negative partial regression coefficient was observed for piglets weaned/litter for sows in the CK and TS groups (P<0.05). A trend (P=0.10) was observed for the association of sows in the CK group to wean −0.21 fewer piglets/litter than control sows. An increase in OG lesion severity score was associated with lighter adjusted litter wean weights compared to control sows. Sows in the control group spent 18.9% standing and 12.7% of the total time standing and eating. The amount of time spent standing and eating before feed presentation was negatively associated with time spent eating after feeding (b=−0.24, P<0.01); that is, each percent increase in time spent eating prior to feeding was associated with a 79% decrease in time spent standing and eating post feeding. Sows in the OG group spent 50% less time kneeling for each incremental increase in OG lesion score. Post feeding, each OG lesion score increase was associated with a 40% decrease in time spent standing and eating. Results from this study demonstrate that foot lesions can impair productivity and behavior of lactating sows.

BIOMETRIA E ALTERAÇÕES DO EQUILÍBRIO PODAL EM EQUINOS UTILIZADOS EM VAQUEJADA

This study assessed the hoof balance of 50 adult Quarter horses in training of vaquejada to determine the biometry and incidence of hoof imbalance. Seven measurements of the hoof were taken: angle at the toe, lateral and medial heel length, toe length, frog length and width, and length and width of sole. From these measurements the following hoof problems could be identified: 32 out of 50 horses (64%) had contracted heels, 15 (30%) had medial to lateral hoof imbalance, and 27 (54%) had asymmetry of hoof. The difference of toe angle among contralateral members was not significant, however, some horses presented difference among the angle of the opposite forelimb, varying from the degree 1 to the 2, and foot contraction varied from 40 to 64% to the different studied members. The high frequency of hoof abnormalities in this population of horses suggests that trimming and shoeing practices employed should be reviewed and improved. Keywords: Equine, hoof balance, trimming, lameness

Comparison of owner‐reported health problems with veterinary assessment of geriatric horses in the United Kingdom

Previous studies suggest that owners underestimate or incorrectly recognise or report health problems in geriatric horses. However, few studies have directly compared owner-reported and veterinary assessed disease. To compare the findings of veterinary clinical examination of geriatric horses with owner-reported clinical signs and disease. A total of 200 horses aged ≥ 15 years were randomly selected to receive a veterinary examination, from responses to a cross-sectional postal questionnaire survey. Veterinary examinations were performed within 2 months of questionnaire return, and agreement between owner-reported data and veterinary clinical findings was assessed. Owners under-reported many clinical signs and disease conditions detected on veterinary clinical examination. For example, dental abnormalities (detected in 95.4% of horses, reported by 24.5% of owners); cardiac murmurs (detected in 20% of horses, reported by 0.5% of owners); lameness (present in 50% of horses, reported by 23% of owners) and hoof abnormalities (detected in 80% of horses, reported by 27% of owners). Agreement between owner-reported and veterinary assessed respiratory disease (Kappa 0.02-0.2), body condition score (Kappa 0.24) and coat abnormalities (Kappa 0.42) was poor, fair and moderate, respectively. Range of motion (ROM) of the tarsal and metacarpophalangeal joints was lower in horses with owner-reported osteoarthritis (P = 0.005 and <0.001, respectively). The low prevalence and relatively poor agreement of owner-reported disease compared to that detected on veterinary examination suggests inaccurate or under-recognition, or inaccurate reporting of health problems by owners of geriatric horses, which could lead to a delay in presentation for veterinary treatment. Increased veterinary involvement and improved owner education in the care of geriatric horses should facilitate earlier identification of disease, particularly that which is not readily detectable by owners, and aid management of health and welfare problems.

Disease prevalence in geriatric horses in the United Kingdom: Veterinary clinical assessment of 200 cases

Geriatric horses (aged ≥ 15 years) represent a substantial proportion of the equine population, yet few studies have investigated the prevalence of diseases within this population in the UK. To describe the findings of veterinary clinical examination of 200 geriatric horses and ponies in north west England and north Wales, and to assess the effect of animal age and type (horse or pony) on the presence or absence of clinical signs and veterinary diagnosed health problems. From responses to a cross-sectional postal questionnaire survey of owners of geriatric horses (n = 918/1144), 200 horses were randomly selected to receive a veterinary clinical examination covering the major body systems. Twenty-six percent of animals were overweight (body condition score, BCS, >3/5) and 4.5% were underweight (BCS <2/5). Seventy-one percent had a dermatological abnormality and 22% displayed hirsutism or abnormal moulting. Ophthalmic lesions frequently identified included vitreous degeneration (66.0%), cataracts (58.5%) and senile retinopathy (33.7%). The prevalence of cardiac murmurs was 20%. Whilst only 7.5% of animals had a spontaneous cough during the examination, 18.5% had some form of nasal discharge and 22% had abnormalities on thoracic auscultation at rest. Following rebreathing, 13.6% developed marked abnormalities consistent with lower airway disease. When assessed at walk, 18.6% were lame on at least one limb, while 50.5% were lame in trot. The majority of animals (83.5%) had a reduction in range of motion in at least one joint. Eighty percent of animals had hoof abnormalities. Dental abnormalities were identified in 95.4% of animals, with cheek teeth diastemata, excessive wear/cupped out teeth and focal overgrowths the most frequently identified conditions. This study has identified many prevalent clinical signs of disease in geriatric horses. Description of the most prevalent health problems and further identification of risk factors for these conditions will aid in targeted improvements in veterinary care, owner education and welfare.

Erhebung der Prävalenz von Erbkrankheiten bei dreijährigen Pferden der Freiberger-Rasse

The objective of this study was to investigate clinical signs indicating diseases with known or suspected hereditary components like equine sarcoid, insect bite hypersensitivity, osteochondrosis, allergic airway diseases, podotrochleosis, prognatism and wind-sucking in the franches-montagnes horse. We performed a clinical examination on 702 three-year-old, privately owned franches-montagnes horses, which were shown at the Swiss-Field-Tests in 2004. With the help of the owners a questionnaire on health, environment and feeding habits of the animals was completed. In 11.9% of the horses, sarcoids were detected, 6.2% carried one tumor and 5.7% had several. The prevalence was higher in chestnuts (16.6%) than in bays (10.1%). The prevalence of sarcoids in offspring from sires with known sarcoids (data from Station-Tests 1994-2005) was not significantly higher than in descendants from stallions without a known history of sarcoids. Clinical signs of insect bite hypersensitivity were only found in six horses (0.9%). In 12.0% hoof abnormalities like brittle horn, ring hoofs or hoof cracks of different degrees were recorded. The angle between hoof base and hoof wall was 56.7 +/- 0.1 degrees, the average hoof width was 13.7 +/- 0.3 cm in the front feet. For both of these measures we found no significant difference between left and right feet. With the exception of a high sarcoid prevalence, our results indicate that the franches-montagnes horse is a healthy breed overall.

Frequência de problemas de equilíbrio nos cascos de cavalos crioulos em treinamento

O desequilíbrio dos cascos como fator causador de claudicação em cavalos atletas é bastante documentado na literatura e pode ser dividido em geométrico, dinâmico e natural. O presente estudo verificou o equilíbrio geométrico nos cascos de 97 cavalos crioulos adultos, em treinamento, em 16 estabelecimentos, para determinar a incidência de alterações nos cascos. Foram registradas nove medidas nos cascos dos membros anteriores: ângulo da pinça, circunferência na banda coronária, comprimento lateral e medial dos talões e quartos, comprimento da pinça, comprimento e largura da ranilha. As mensurações permitiram a identificação das seguintes alterações: 85 dos 97 cavalos (87.62%) apresentaram talões contraídos, 48 (49.48%) desequilíbrio médio-lateral, 23 (23.71%) ângulos dos cascos contralaterais diferentes e 11 (11.34%) tinham o eixo quebrado para trás. A incidência de ângulos dos cascos contralaterais diferentes variou entre os cinco grupos de idade (p&lt;0.05). O ângulo do casco variou entre 45° e 58° (52.71 ± 0.15°). O comprimento médio da pinça foi 8.7 ± 0.6 cm e foi considerado excessivo para cavalos com 411.4 ± 34.80 kg de peso. A grande freqüência de alterações de casco nesta população de cavalos sugere que as práticas de casqueamento e ferrageamento adotadas devem ser revistas e melhoradas.