Influence of radiographic osteochondrosis status at 16-18 months on racing performances in French trotters

Röntgenologische Osteochondrosis-Befunde im Alter von 16 bis 18 Monaten in Bezug zur Rennleistung bei Französischen Trabern

Langlois B, Blouin C, Perrocheau M, Chaffaux S

DOI: 10.21836/PEM20060409
Year: 2006
Volume: 22
Issue: 4
Pages: 461-464

The aim of this study was to establish the relationship between the osteochondrosis status of 18-month-old colts and their racing and economic potential. Radiographic imaging was performed of the hocks and fetlocks of 740 yearling trotters at the time of sale. These radiographic diagnoses were then correlated to different criteria related to the racing career of the horse (qualification, number of starts, earning indices), and to its auction price. The study found that these ossification anomalies, detected just before training begins, have no influence on the performances and earnings of the trotters up to the age of four, or on their auction price. It is concluded that either these lesions have no negative effect on performance, or any negative effects are nullified by the medical-surgical environment of the animals.