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The Veterinary clinics of North America. Equine practice2019; 35(3); 529-544; doi: 10.1016/j.cveq.2019.08.008

Dental Disorders of Donkeys.

Abstract: Research and clinical understanding of equine dentistry has progressed in recent years; however, specific knowledge about donkey dentistry is lacking. This article intends to revise unique anatomic features of the head and oral cavity of donkeys, as well as how to correctly examine, diagnose, prevent, and/or treat dental pathology, allowing for a better comprehension of oral and dental disorders affecting these animals throughout their life. It also emphasizes that these disorders need to be taken into account when assessing the welfare of donkeys.
Publication Date: 2019-10-03 PubMed ID: 31587975DOI: 10.1016/j.cveq.2019.08.008Google Scholar: Lookup
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Summary

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The research article focuses on the need for more understanding and knowledge on dental and oral problems in donkeys, discussing the unique features of donkey anatomy and strategies for prevention, examination, and treatment of donkey’s dental disorders. The article couples the dental health to overall welfare of donkeys and argues for additional focus in this area.

Unique Donkey Head and Oral Cavity Anatomy

  • This research aims to underline the unique anatomical features of the donkey’s head and oral cavity. Donkeys may have different oral concerns compared to other equine species due to distinct physical characteristics.

Examination and Diagnosis of Donkey Dental Pathologies

  • The article provides insights on how to effectively examine and diagnose dental pathologies in donkeys. Accurate diagnosis forms the basis of appropriate treatment and is an essential skill for any practitioner.

Prevention and Treatment of Dental Disorders

  • Besides diagnosis, this research emphasizes the importance of preventing dental problems in donkeys. It suggests strategies for proactive care that can help in preventing the onset of oral diseases.
  • Additionally, the article provides an overview of effective treatment methods for common dental disorders in donkeys.

Linking Dental Health to Overall Welfare of Donkeys

  • Crucially, this article establishes a connection between dental health and overall donkey welfare. By maintaining good dental health, we help fulfill the broader well-being needs of these animals, potentially enhancing longevity and quality of life.

Call for More Focus on Donkey Dental Health

  • Finally, the article asserts that donkey dental health needs more focused attention in the current veterinary research and practice. The authors argue that knowledge in this area is currently insufficient, highlighting the need for advancement and better understanding in donkey dentistry.

Cite This Article

APA
Rodrigues JB, Lilly G. (2019). Dental Disorders of Donkeys. Vet Clin North Am Equine Pract, 35(3), 529-544. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cveq.2019.08.008

Publication

ISSN: 1558-4224
NlmUniqueID: 8511904
Country: United States
Language: English
Volume: 35
Issue: 3
Pages: 529-544
PII: S0749-0739(19)30046-X

Researcher Affiliations

Rodrigues, João B
  • Research and Operational Support Department, The Donkey Sanctuary, Trow Offices, Sidmouth, Devon EX10 0PB, England; CIMO - Mountain Research Center, Polytechnic Institute of Bragança (ESA/IPB), Bragança, Portugal. Electronic address: joao.rodrigues@thedonkeysanctuary.org.uk.
Lilly, Gemma
  • Research and Operational Support Department, The Donkey Sanctuary, Trow Offices, Sidmouth, Devon EX10 0PB, England.

MeSH Terms

  • Animals
  • Dentistry / veterinary
  • Equidae
  • Horse Diseases / diagnosis
  • Horse Diseases / therapy
  • Horses
  • Stomatognathic Diseases / veterinary

Citations

This article has been cited 2 times.
  1. Zhu Y, Jiang W, Holyoak R, Liu B, Li J. Investigation of Oral Microbiome in Donkeys and the Effect of Dental Care on Oral Microbial Composition. Animals (Basel) 2020 Nov 30;10(12).
    doi: 10.3390/ani10122245pubmed: 33266023google scholar: lookup
  2. Masebo NT, Benedetti B, Angeloni MG, Lee L, Bigi D, Padalino B. Systematic Literature Review on Donkeys (Equus asinus): Husbandry and Welfare in Europe. Animals (Basel) 2025 Sep 23;15(19).
    doi: 10.3390/ani15192768pubmed: 41096364google scholar: lookup