Use of behavioural signs for riskbased prevention of catastrophic breakdown in racehorses

Abstract

Bone and joint injuries in Thoroughbred racehorses typically originate in areas of intense loading. Despite the increasing understanding regarding the pathogenesis of bone fatigue, early detection prior to fatigue fracture is difficult. This thesis focuses on understanding equine behaviour and its potential to reflect orthopaedic pain to assist in the early identification of horses at risk of injury. Previous research suggests an association between facial expression and the presence of equine lameness. In cattle, motion sensors have been validated to record recumbency behaviour used to detect disease without the need for continuous observation. This thesis aimed to investigate monitoring of..