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Observation
What you see. The starting point for addressing any equine health related issue is your observation.

YOU ARE OBSERVING

Straight Through Stifle & Hock, Post-Legged Conformation

Summary

This conformation predisposes horses to a variety of lameness related problems. It is commonly associated with locking patella, hock arthritis, and high suspensory desmitis.

  • Code Yellow

    Contact Your Vet at Your Convenience for an Appointment
    • If you are considering purchase, be sure to have a purchase exam performed.
    • If you are considering purchase, be sure to have a purchase exam performed.

your role

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What To Do

Realize the problems associated with this conformation and avoid it when selecting horses for purchase. If you own a horse with this conformation, recognize that it predisposes to certain conditions causing lameness. Talk to your vet about management, work level and type, shoeing and other considerations that will help keep the horse sound, performing its intended use.

your vet's role

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Your vet will consider this conformation when examining a horse for purchase, and will discuss it with you in light of the rest of their exam findings, your expectations, and intended use. Your vet will also consider this conformation as it relates to any lameness problems that arise.
Questions Your Vet Might Ask:
  • Are you considering the horse for purchase, or currently own the horse?
  • What is the horse used for?
  • What is your goal for the horse?
  • Have you ridden the horse and asked the horse to perform its intended use?
  • Do you notice any lameness?
  • What level of work is the horse being asked to perform?

Author: Doug Thal DVM Dipl. ABVP