to add additional nutrients or minerals in the form of a supplement,” she says.
What Can Go Wrong? As previously mentioned, young horses are at risk of several developmental orthopedic disorders including: Epiphysitis—Also known as physitis, epiphysitis is the
inflammation of growth plates (the areas within the bones of young horses from which the bones grow or lengthen). The most common points affected by epiphysitis are just above the knee, the cannon bones, and the lower tibia; Osteochondrosis—Osteochondrosis (OC) results from a disruption in the growth of articular (within the joint) cartilage. The most frequent joint affected is the hock; Juvenile Arthritis—Not surprisingly, juvenile arthritis is
simply arthritis that develops in juvenile horses; and Degenerative soft tissue disease—A condition
that affects horses of all ages, degenerative soft tissue disease occurs if a horse is not adequately conditioned, developed, and fit, then he is more likely to overuse his tendons and ligaments. Chronic overuse can result in degenerative suspensory disease, bowed tendons and collateral ligament desmitis according to Dr. Clabaugh. The majority of the aforementioned ailments develop within the first few years of life. Dr. Clabaugh notes, however, that OC can develop as late as four to five years of age.
“I recommend taking survey radiographs (X rays) prior
to commencing training,” she says. “If OC is diagnosed early, surgical debridement is often curative.”
In Conclusion Surprisingly, there is little scientific research focused on the growth rate of Warmblood foals and juvenile horses as compared to other types of horses. There is a large body of anecdotal evidence and a common belief that Warmbloods mature slower than other types of horses. When it comes to a young Warmblood, as with any
breed, it’s important to treat each horse as an individual and address any unique needs as they may arise. If questions should arise about the physical maturity of a certain horse, consulting a veterinarian is the best way to determine if a particular feeding regimen, training program or exercise routine is beneficial or detrimental to the horse. “I am considerate of each
Dr. Kelleyerin Clabaugh and Gryph. Photo © James Forester
horse’s individual physical and
mental condition when determining the extent and scope of exercise and competition,” Dr. Clabaugh says. “My focus is my horse’s long term health and performance.”
Warmbloods Today 53
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