As part of our commitment to improve the understanding and knowledge of the Horse's foot Corona Vista Equine Center is undertaking many research programs collaborating with equine experts in many fields around the globe. To keep up to date on the latest research developments join our newsletter list below!*
Wild Horses: By examining the feral horses in different parts of the world we can begin to assess the adaptability of the foot and how it responds to improve its functioning and health in its environment. Examination of their behavior, movements, radiographing the tissues of the distal limb and attempting to understand their varied diets will provide some insights into how the foot can be self-maintained. Understanding how the health and well being of the wild horses is important for our knowledge of the health of domestic horses.
Wild "Brumby's" from Outback Australia are being studied to aid our domesticated horses.
Comparative CTs of P3 Right- Australian Brumby and Left: QH Domestic showing clear differences in density.
Coffin bone Osteoporosis?: Presently we are studying the coffin bones of domestic and feral horses as to their bony conformation internally and externally and how they change when interacting with the environment. Several of the “normal” measures of the coffin bone are actually indicative of underlying pathologies due to improper loading of the foot, its trimmings and shoeings and other environmental influences. Findings indicate that osteoporotic changes common to women may also be present in the domestic horse.
Hoof wall: The hoof wall is believed to be the primary support structure of the foot, and as a result traditional practices of hoof care have evolved to maintain such a support mechanism. Evidence is accumulating in our laboratory suggesting that the hoof wall is NOT the primary structure of weight bearing and should only have a secondary and/or minor role in support. How the basic growth mechanisms of the hoof are related to the disease laminitis is our major goal.
Hoofwall Laminae as seen through Bob's microscope
Bob & Tara adjust the GPS and Pedometer on Kellor
Movements: Movements of the domestic horses are believed to be important in maintaining healthy feet. Using foot pedometers and Global Positioning System (GPS) monitors measures of locomotion behavior of domestic horses under various conditions are being examined.
Neurosensory perception: Evidence indicates so far that the sensory capabilities of the horse’s foot have exceeded our expectations in the horse’s ability to perceive the many and different stimuli within the environment, such as light touch and pressures with the frogs and soles much like our own feet. We believe that these sensory perceptions enable the horse to actively engage within its environment, as well as aid in the regulation of blood perfusion through the foot.
Thermograph of the Coffin Bone
Radiograph of the Distal Limb
Comfort of the horse: Examination of various surfaces has enabled us to begin to appreciate that the horse is capable of seeking a more comfortable surface to stand on which in turn may affect the overall health of the horse.
Trim: Striving to assess and develop a method that maximizes the efficiency of the foot tissues to support the horse during stance as well as dissipate energy during movement.
Tara putting the Trimming Practice to the test.
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