FIELD STUDY OF THE PREVALENCE OF LAMENESS IN HORSES IN THREE PROVINCES OF IRAN

Abstract

A population of 364 show jumper horses was examined for signs of lameness in three province of Iran, i.e., Tehran, Isfahan and Fars. The basis of the survey was the inability of the horse to take part in jumping exercise. The diagnosis of lameness was performed using appropriate methods of visual and physical examination, aided by nerve blocking and radiographic examination. In 364 horses, included cases of hygroma, very short heel, tendonitis, fissure in the hoof, navicular syndrome, laminitis, white line disease, splints, sore shine, side bone, ring bone, tumoral calcinosis, sheard heel, incorrect shoeing and wind puff. This suggests that the diagnosis, therapy and prophylaxis of lameness merit a high priority in research efforts to reduce wastage among valubale show jumper horses.

Keywords

• Horse
• lameness
• prevalence
• clinical signs
• radiography