Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: https://hdl.handle.net/1959.11/22490
Title: Equine gestational length and location: is there more that the research could be telling us?
Contributor(s): Clothier, Jane  (author)orcid ; Hinch, Geoffrey  (author)orcid ; Brown, Wendy  (author)orcid ; Small, Alison (author)
Publication Date: 2017
Open Access: Yes
DOI: 10.1111/avj.12653
Handle Link: https://hdl.handle.net/1959.11/22490
Abstract: Clear definitions of 'normal' equine gestation length (GL) are elusive, with GL being subject to a considerable number of internal and external variables that have confounded interpretation and estimation of GL for over 50 years. Consequently, the mean GL of 340 days first established by Rossdale in 1967 for Thoroughbred horses in northern Europe continues to be the benchmark value referenced by veterinarians, breeders and researchers worldwide. Application of a 95% confidence limit to reported GL range values indicates a possible connection between geographic location and GL. Improved knowledge of this variable may help in assessing the degree of the neonate's prematurity and dysmaturity at or soon after birth, and identification of conditions such as incomplete ossification of the carpal and tarsal bones. Associated pathologies such as bone malformation and fracture, angular limb deformity and degenerative joint disease can cause chronic unsoundness, rendering horses unsuitable for athletic purpose and shortening ridden careers. This review will examine both the factors contributing to GL variation and the published data to determine whether there is potential to refine our understanding of GL by establishing a more accurate and regionally relevant GL range based on a 95% confidence limit. This may benefit both equine industry economics and equine welfare by improving early identification of skeletally immature neonates, so that appropriate intervention may be considered.
Publication Type: Journal Article
Source of Publication: Australian Veterinary Journal, 95(12), p. 454-461
Publisher: Wiley-Blackwell Publishing Ltd
Place of Publication: United Kingdom
ISSN: 1751-0813
0005-0423
Fields of Research (FoR) 2008: 070202 Animal Growth and Development
070206 Animal Reproduction
070203 Animal Management
Fields of Research (FoR) 2020: 300301 Animal growth and development
300305 Animal reproduction and breeding
300302 Animal management
Socio-Economic Objective (SEO) 2008: 830306 Horses
839901 Animal Welfare
Socio-Economic Objective (SEO) 2020: 100406 Horses
109902 Animal welfare
Peer Reviewed: Yes
HERDC Category Description: C1 Refereed Article in a Scholarly Journal
Appears in Collections:Journal Article
School of Environmental and Rural Science

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