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The Radiographic Anatomy of Miniature Horse and Miniature Pony Feet
Thesis   Open access

The Radiographic Anatomy of Miniature Horse and Miniature Pony Feet

Jonathan M Olijnyk
Masters by Research, Murdoch University
2023
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Abstract

Miniature horses--Anatomy Miniature horses--Abnormalities Hoofs Foot--Abnormalities Miniature horses--Conformation Foot--Anatomy
Anecdotal reports of Miniature Horse conformation describe their feet as being more upright than other breeds. In this descriptive study, 64 measurements, from 30 Miniature Horses and Ponies were acquired from each foot both before and after hoof trimming by an experienced farrier. Miniature Horses and Ponies were found to have taller, more upright foot conformation, and more similar fore- and hindfoot conformation than standardsized horses. The dorsal hoof wall thickness was greater in heavier miniatures (p<0.05). An observer agreement analysis identified that the most reliable, repeatable, and agreeable measurements were simple, well-defined, linear measurements. Hoof trimming reduced toe length (p<0.005), medial hoof wall length (p<0.004) and increased the dorsal hoof wall angle (p<0.02). There was less variation in the conformation of fore and hind hooves after trimming than prior. The data from this study, and the conclusions drawn from it, can be used by farriers and veterinarians in the podiatric management of Miniature breeds measuring less than 87cm in height to the withers.

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