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  Discussion on Long-Term / Multi-Generational Research on ALD/CT?
Author Message
Member:
ekaufman

Posted on Saturday, Jun 23, 2007 - 3:50 pm:

Does anyone know of long-term or multi-generational studies on foals born with ALD or contracted tendons?

I am interested in the performance careers of foals born (and treated to the point of being declared "fixed") with these conditions, as well as their potential for passing them on, or potentially creating a third-generation of crabbed cripples.

I breed very old bullfighting lines of Andalusians, but selecting for a modern competitive type of horse. These foals tend to be born with various soft tissue limb issues that have all (apparently) resolved with careful management and intervention in the first few months.

I would like to believe that these are high maintenance newborns that are nevertheless good athletic prospects, the best of whom also show breeding potential. Or am I contributing to a slow destruction of this breed's famous hardiness and longevity? What's the science say?
Moderator:
DrO

Posted on Monday, Jun 25, 2007 - 8:01 am:

Hello Elizabeth,
When you write ALD would that be Accessory Ligament Desmitis?

In general we consider contracted tendons more of a management problem and not genetics but I have known a Arab stallion that would throw about 30% foals which had a right fore club foot (contracted ddf tendons) out of a few dozen observed offspring. It is difficult to explain this other than genetically. Perhaps more details would help us address your concerns.
DrO
Member:
ekaufman

Posted on Monday, Jun 25, 2007 - 2:18 pm:

Hello,

I am mis-using acronyms-- sorry! I mean angular limb deformity. In my breed, we are trying to add more modern athleticism. Many of the foals are born wonky-legged, but come out of it quickly with care. I have had 3 foals in a row very windswept, contracted in front and lax behind. I nurse them for a few weeks and then they appear to be fine-- very high quality and athletic little annoyances with too much time on their hooves for anyone's peace of mind.

This year I wondered whether we will look back in a few generations and realize that we destroyed the famous working longevity and soundness of the breed, and that these wonky babies were the early sign we ignored. I wondered whether there was science either way on the subject.
Moderator:
DrO

Posted on Tuesday, Jun 26, 2007 - 8:19 am:

Ahh...Angular Limb Deformity I shoulda guessed, I think the coffee weak yesterday morning. I am afraid there is no scientific work on your question and if there were it would be uncertain how it fit your situation and here is why.

It is normal for the legs to not be right as require a little correction so I am uncertain as to the severity of your problem. When you say very wonky legged I am in a bit of a quandary but in general if these foals are self correcting I do not believe you are looking at the precipice of a serious genetic disorder being established in your breed. If you have a significant number of these "windswept" foals I would look carefully at my feeding / management program.

If on the other hand you have significant numbers of foals with deformities that require medical intervention, and your nutritional program good, I would consider changing lines.
DrO
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