UK opens equine research complex to advance horse and human health
Reported by Lane Report · November 5 at 10:26 AM · Summary by Hoofdeck
The University of Kentucky opened its Equine Sports Medicine Research Complex at North Farm in Lexington, with an official ceremony on Oct. 30. The facility includes a renovated 12-stall barn, 26 acres, and a new eight-horse exerciser funded by a gift from Nutramax Laboratories.
Background
Musculoskeletal disease and injury, meaning problems with bones, joints, tendons and ligaments, are among the most common causes of lost training time and early retirement in performance horses. Research facilities like this typically use controlled exercise and established animal models to study how these conditions develop and how treatments perform before they reach clinical use.
Why it matters
Joint and musculoskeletal problems are a leading cause of lost work and lost soundness in horses, so new research capacity in this area can eventually shape the care and management options owners have.
What you can do
If your horse has ongoing lameness or joint stiffness, ask your veterinarian about a soundness exam and a management plan suited to your horse's workload and age.
Check what your pet can and cannot eat
Written by Hoofdeck from the report by Lane Report. Background is general information, not advice about your horse; if you are worried, call your vet.