Common Conditions Encountered in Race Horses.

This research discussion delves into some of the frequently observed veterinary issues in racehorses, specifically focusing on Thoroughbreds and Standardbreds in Canada. The paper also highlights the specific health and fitness needs of these racehorses that are trained extensively to achieve high levels of performance.

Definition of Race Horses

• Race horses, as defined in this context, particularly refer to Thoroughbred or Standardbred horses in training in Canada. Other breeds like Quarter Horses and Arabs, although raced in separate regions, aren’t prominent in Canada. This focus is primarily due to the presence and popularity of these breeds in the region.

Race Horses as Athletes

• Race horses are considered athletes and are designed to achieve maximum fitness. This peak fitness is obtained through rigorous, systematic training schedules, and the horses are expected to compete at their absolute limit. These animals must be robust, possess good constitution, rugged limbs, and demonstrate the ability to race at speed over a long distance.

Training and Common Ailments

• Thoroughbreds usually enter training at around two years old. They undergo a progressive regimen of increasing speed and distance until they are ready for racing. However, being new to the track commonly exposes them to equine influenza. Ailments such as this are a common occurrence, causing malaise, fever, nasal discharge, and potential pulmonary issues. Following the appropriate treatment, training must be suspended, and once the horse recovers, conditioning and training restart anew.
• Another common ailment likely to be anticipated in racehorses is “bucked shins“. This is inflammation of the anterior aspect of the third metacarpal bone causing swelling, increased sensitivity and some lameness. Generally, it’s believed to be resultant of the running gait’s concussion when the horse’s forefeet land heavily during a race. Treatment for this condition involves a series of approaches such as rest, poulticing, cast encasement, continued training with counter-irritant paints, corticosteroid therapy, exposure to radioactive isotopes and some short-wave therapy.