Osteoarthritis (OA) can cause chronic pain in horses, but it can be difficult for equine owners and managers to recognize and manage. Though it's often stereotyped as an older-horse disease, OA can affect younger horses, as well. OA often limits the athletic pursuits in which horses can engage.
Dr. Diane Howard, of the University of Edinburgh, has interviewed a plethora of horse owners whose horses experience chronic OA pain and developed a 15-question survey that she hopes will help horse owners identify and monitor OA pain in their horses.
Additional participants are needed to determine whether the questionnaire is helpful. Preliminary results are promising: responders can complete the survey in less than five minutes, and have found the questions to be straightforward and helpful.
The researchers hope that early OA detection, ongoing monitoring, and informed decision making will significantly impact animal welfare. The research is funded by Morris Animal Foundation.
Want to take part in the study or have additional questions? Email Diane Howard at dianehoward@gmail.com
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