| Records |
Author  |
Mills, D.S. |
| Title |
Comments about the importance of behaviour to equine clinicians |
Type |
Journal Article |
| Year |
2007 |
Publication |
Equine Veterinary Journal |
Abbreviated Journal |
Equine Vet J |
| Volume |
39 |
Issue |
1 |
Pages |
95 |
| Keywords |
Animals; *Behavior, Animal/physiology; *Clinical Competence; Horses/*physiology; Humans; Veterinarians/*psychology; Veterinary Medicine/*standards |
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English |
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0425-1644 |
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| Notes |
PMID:17228604 |
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no |
| Call Number |
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Serial |
1839 |
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| Author |
Mills, D.S. |
| Title |
Applying learning theory to the management of the horse: the difference between getting it right and getting it wrong |
Type |
Journal Article |
| Year |
1998 |
Publication |
Equine veterinary journal. Supplement |
Abbreviated Journal |
Equine Vet J Suppl |
| Volume |
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Issue |
27 |
Pages |
44-48 |
| Keywords |
Animals; *Behavior, Animal; Horses/*psychology; *Learning; Reinforcement (Psychology) |
| Abstract |
Horses constantly modify their behaviour as a result of experience. This involves the creation of an association between events or stimuli. The influence of people on the modification and generation of certain behaviour patterns extends beyond the intentional training of the horse. The impact of any action depends on how it is perceived by the horse, rather than the motive of the handler. Negative and positive reinforcement increase the probability of specific behaviours recurring i.e. strengthen the association between events, whereas punishment reduces the probable recurrence of a behaviour without providing specific information about the desired alternative. In this paper the term 'punishers' is used to refer to the physical aids, such as a whip or crop, which may be used to bring about the process of punishment. However, if their application ceases when a specific behaviour occurs they may negatively reinforce that action. Intended 'punishers' may also be rewarding (e.g. for attention seeking behaviour). Therefore, contingency factors (which define the relationship between stimuli, such as the level of reinforcement), contiguity factors (which describe the proximity of events in space or time) and choice of reinforcing stimuli are critical in determining the rate of learning. The many problems associated with the application of punishment in practice lead to confusion by both horse and handler and, possibly, abuse of the former. Most behaviour problems relate to handling and management of the horse and can be avoided or treated with a proper analysis of the factors influencing the behaviour. |
| Address |
De Montfort University Lincoln, School of Agriculture and Horticulture, Caythorpe, Lincs., UK |
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| Notes |
PMID:10485004 |
Approved |
no |
| Call Number |
refbase @ user @ |
Serial |
845 |
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| Author |
Mills, D.S. |
| Title |
Personality and individual differences in the horse, their significance, use and measurement |
Type |
Journal Article |
| Year |
1998 |
Publication |
Equine Veterinary Journal. Supplement |
Abbreviated Journal |
Equine Vet J Suppl |
| Volume |
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Issue |
27 |
Pages |
10-13 |
| Keywords |
Animals; *Behavior, Animal; Horses/*psychology; Personality |
| Abstract |
The biological diversity of a species gives rise to individual differences in behavioural tendency. Traditionally, this variation has been considered to be of little scientific importance or value, but the description and quantification of the fundamental basis of this variability is relevant to many aspects of equine science. The reliable identification of these features may allow the development of more accurate diagnostic and prognostic indicators for a range of clinical diseases. Biologically based traits also provide a more rational basis for selective management and breeding programmes in which specific behavioural tendencies are sought. Individual differences in behaviour also reflect the range of subjective feelings experienced by animals and therefore need to be understood by those concerned with animal welfare. Psychometric techniques concerned with the assessment of personality may provide a suitable basis for scientific study in this field. Potentially methodologies include: behavioural tests, objective behaviour measures or the quantification of reports from those familiar with the subjects. The assessment of the validity and reliability of the variables measured in these tests is an integral part of their development. Interobserver correlation in an experiment based on the subjective rating of 20 horses with respect to 14 familiar terms used to describe horse personality was generally low. This suggests that, with the exception of the terms 'flighty' and 'sharp', the empirical terminology commonly used to describe horse personality is unreliable. |
| Address |
De Montfort University Lincoln, School of Agriculture and Horticulture, Caythorpe, Lincs, UK |
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| Notes |
PMID:10484996 |
Approved |
no |
| Call Number |
refbase @ user @ |
Serial |
1932 |
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| Author |
Morales, J.L.; Manchado, M.; Vivo, J.; Galisteo, A.M.; Aguera, E.; Miro, F. |
| Title |
Angular kinematic patterns of limbs in elite and riding horses at trot |
Type |
Journal Article |
| Year |
1998 |
Publication |
Equine Veterinary Journal |
Abbreviated Journal |
Equine Vet J |
| Volume |
30 |
Issue |
6 |
Pages |
528-533 |
| Keywords |
Animals; Biomechanics; Breeding; Extremities/*physiology; Gait/*physiology; Horses/*physiology; Image Processing, Computer-Assisted; Joints/*physiology; Male; Video Recording |
| Abstract |
Normal speed videography was used to determine the angular parameters of 28 Spanish Thoroughbreds at trot. Horses were divided into 3 groups: Group UT, comprising 9 animals (provided by the VII National Stud, Cordoba, Spain) which had undergone no specific training programme and which were hand led at the trot; Group T, formed by 19 horses considered to be highly bred and trained, and which were also hand led; and Group RT, comprising the same horses as the latter group but this time trotted by a rider. Each animal was filmed 6 times from the right-hand side, using a Hi8 (25 Hz) video camera. Angular parameters for fore- and hindlimb joints were measured in each stride from computer-grabbed frames and entered into a spreadsheet for calculation; parameters included maximum and minimum angles, range of motion, and angles at landing, lift off and maximum hoof height; the times at which maximum angle, minimum angle, lift off and maximum hoof height occurred were calculated as percentages of total stride duration. Stride velocity (mean [s.d.]) was 4.01 (0.62), 3.60 (0.34) and 3.07 (0.36) m/s for Groups UT, T and RT, respectively. Data were then compared between Groups UT-T and Groups T-RT. Compared with Group UT, horses from Group T featured a shorter stance percentage (P<0.001) in both fore- and hindlimbs. The range of motion in forelimbs was smaller (P<0.05), due to lower retraction (P<0.001); moreover, maximum retraction appeared earlier (P<0.05). Greater scapular inclination was in evidence (P<0.05) and the shoulder joint extended further (P<0.05). Fore- and hind fetlock joints revealed a relatively shorter hyperextension period during the stance phase (P<0.01). Compared with Group T, horses from Group RT had a longer stance percentage, with belated maximum retraction of the fore- and hindlimbs. The range of movement in scapular inclination was greater (P<0.05), due to a smaller minimum angle (P<0.01), and the shoulder joint flexed more (P<0.05). The elbow joint extended more and for longer during the stance phase. Initial extension of the hip joint (P<0.05) and tarsus (P<0.001) lasted longer. The carpal and fore and hind fetlock joints recorded relatively longer hyperextension times, in addition to greater hyperextension during the stance phase. The results from the present study suggest that rider-effect must be taken in consideration when well gaited horses are selected for dressage purposes. |
| Address |
Department of Compared Anatomy and Pathology, University of Cordoba, Veterinary Faculty, Spain |
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English |
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0425-1644 |
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| Notes |
PMID:9844972 |
Approved |
no |
| Call Number |
Equine Behaviour @ team @ |
Serial |
3734 |
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| Author |
Murray, J.K.; Senior, J.M.; Singer, E.R. |
| Title |
A comparison of cross-country recovery rates at CCI 2* with and without steeplechase competitions |
Type |
Journal Article |
| Year |
2006 |
Publication |
Equine Veterinary Journal. Supplement |
Abbreviated Journal |
Equine Vet J Suppl |
| Volume |
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Issue |
36 |
Pages |
133-138 |
| Keywords |
Analysis of Variance; Animals; Area Under Curve; Blood Chemical Analysis/veterinary; Blood Gas Analysis/veterinary; Calcium/blood; Heart Rate/physiology; Hematocrit/veterinary; Horses/*blood/*physiology; Lactates/blood; Physical Conditioning, Animal/*methods/*physiology; Time Factors |
| Abstract |
REASONS FOR PERFORMING STUDY: Short format 3-day events were introduced in 2004. Anecdotal reports suggested that horses were more tired on completion of the cross-country phase of short format events when compared with horses completing the cross-country phase of long format competitions, despite the absence of Phases A, B and C. OBJECTIVES: To compare the physiological parameters and haematological parameters of horses that had completed the cross-country phase of a short format (SF) and a long format (LF) CCI 2* competition. METHODS: During a CCI 2* competition 69 competitors took part in the short format and 74 in the long format competition. Long format competitors completed Phases A, B, C and D and short format competitors completed Phase D only. Phase D (the cross-country course) was identical for both competitions. Two-way ANOVA for repeated measures and post hoc tests were used to compare temperature, pulse and respiration rates of horses competing in both types of competition. T tests were used to compare mean lactate and electrolyte concentrations, while U-Mann Whitney tests were used to compare CK and AST levels measured in horses competing in the short and long formats of the event. RESULTS: Training schedules, age and previous competition experience were not significantly different between horses competing in the SF and LF competitions. On completion of Phase D, SF horses had significantly higher PCV and significantly lower ionised calcium concentrations when compared with LF horses. LF horses had significantly higher heart rates than SF horses 10 min prior to starting Phase D and immediately after completing Phase D; however, no other significant differences were found between the 2 groups of horses. CONCLUSIONS: Only weak evidence was found to support the hypothesis that the workload for the horse in a SF CCI 2* competition is significantly different when compared to the LF CCI 2* competition. POTENTIAL RELEVANCE: There is no beneficial or detrimental effect on horses that complete short format CCI 2* competitions as compared to those that complete long format CCI 2* competitions but further research is required into the physiological response of horses at CCI 3* and CCI 4* short format competitions. |
| Address |
Department of Veterinary Clinical Science, University of Bristol, Langford House, Langford, Bristol, UK |
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English |
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| Notes |
PMID:17402408 |
Approved |
no |
| Call Number |
Equine Behaviour @ team @ |
Serial |
4011 |
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Murray, J.K.; Singer, E.R.; Morgan, K.L.; Proudman, C.J.; French, N.P. |
| Title |
The risk of a horse-and-rider partnership falling on the cross-country phase of eventing competitions |
Type |
Journal Article |
| Year |
2006 |
Publication |
Equine Veterinary Journal |
Abbreviated Journal |
Equine Vet J |
| Volume |
38 |
Issue |
2 |
Pages |
158-163 |
| Keywords |
*Accidental Falls; Animals; Athletic Injuries/epidemiology/*veterinary; Case-Control Studies; Horses/*injuries; Humans; Logistic Models; Physical Conditioning, Animal; Prospective Studies; Risk Factors; Safety; Sports; Time Factors |
| Abstract |
REASONS FOR PERFORMING STUDY: Fatalities resulting from horse falls occurring during the cross-country phase of eventing competitions initiated epidemiological investigation of the risk factors associated with horse falls. OBJECTIVES: To identify variables that increased or decreased the risk of a horse fall during the cross-country phase of an eventing competition. METHODS: Data were collected from randomly selected British Eventing competitions held in Great Britain during 2001 and 2002. Data were obtained for 173 cases (jumping efforts resulting in a fall of the horse-and-rider partnership) and 503 matched controls (jumping efforts not resulting in a fall). The risk of falling was modelled using conditional logistic regression. RESULTS: An increased risk of a horse fall was associated with jumping into or out of water; taking off from good-to-soft, soft or heavy ground; fences with a drop landing; nonangled fences with a spread > or =2 m; and angled fences. Other risk factors included riders who knew that they were in the lead within the competition before the cross-country phase; an inappropriate speed of approach to the fence (too fast or too slow); horse-and-rider partnerships that had not incurred refusals at earlier fences; and riders who received cross-country tuition. CONCLUSIONS: This study has identified modifiable course- and fence-level risk factors for horse falls during the cross-country phase of eventing competitions. The risk of horse and rider injury at eventing competitions should be reduced by 3 simple measures; maintaining good to firm take-off surfaces at fences, reducing the base spread of fences to <2 m and reducing the use of fences at which horses are required to jump into or out of water. Risk reduction arising from course and fence modification needs to be confirmed by intervention studies. Potential relevance: Knowledge of factors that increase or decrease the risk of a horse fall can be used by UK governing bodies of the sport to reduce the risk of horse falls on the cross-country phase of eventing competitions, and reduce the risk of horse and rider injuries and fatalities. As one in 3 horses that fall injure themselves and one in 100 horse falls results in fatality to the horse, we suggest that immediate consideration is given to these recommendations. |
| Address |
Epidemiology Group, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Liverpool, Leahurst, Chester High Road, Neston, South Wirral CH64 7TE, UK |
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English |
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0425-1644 |
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| Notes |
PMID:16536386 |
Approved |
no |
| Call Number |
Equine Behaviour @ team @ |
Serial |
3765 |
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| Author |
Murray, R.C.; Dyson, S.J.; Tranquille, C.; Adams, V. |
| Title |
Association of type of sport and performance level with anatomical site of orthopaedic injury diagnosis |
Type |
Journal Article |
| Year |
2006 |
Publication |
Equine Veterinary Journal. Supplement |
Abbreviated Journal |
Equine Vet J Suppl |
| Volume |
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Issue |
36 |
Pages |
411-416 |
| Keywords |
Animals; Athletic Injuries/diagnosis/etiology/*veterinary; Bone and Bones/*injuries; Chi-Square Distribution; Diagnosis, Differential; Female; *Horses/injuries/physiology; Logistic Models; Male; Physical Conditioning, Animal/*adverse effects/*physiology; Physical Examination/veterinary; Risk Factors; Sports |
| Abstract |
REASON FOR PERFORMING STUDY: Although anecdotal reports of increased orthopaedic injury risk in equine sports exist, there is little scientific evidence to support this. OBJECTIVES: To test whether horses undertaking a single competitive sport have increased risk of specific injuries compared to those used for general purpose riding (GP); and whether injury type varies with sport category and performance level. METHODS: Data from 1069 records of horses undergoing orthopaedic evaluation (1998-2003) and meeting inclusion criteria were reviewed. Sport category (GP, showjumping, dressage, eventing, racing), level (nonelite or elite) and diagnosis were recorded. Effects of sport category and level on probability of a specific diagnosis were assessed using chi-squared tests. Logistic regression was used to determine which competitive sports and levels increased risk of injury compared with GP. RESULTS: Overall there was a significant effect of sport category and level on diagnosis (P<0.0001). There was significant difference between anatomical site injured and sport category (P<0.0001); a high risk of forelimb superficial digital flexor tendon injury in elite eventing (P<0.0001) and elite showjumping (P = 0.02); distal deep digital flexor tendon (DDFT) injury in elite showjumping (P = 0.002); and hindlimb suspensory ligament injury in elite (P<0.0001) and nonelite (P = 0.001) dressage. There was a low risk of tarsal injury in elite eventing (P = 0.01) and proximal DDFT injury in dressage (P = 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: Horses competing in different sports are predisposed to specific injuries; particular sports may increase the risk of injury at certain anatomical sites; and the type and site of injury may reflect the type and level of performance. POTENTIAL RELEVANCE: These findings could guide clinicians in the diagnosis of sport related injuries. |
| Address |
Animal Health Trust, Lanwades Park, Kenfford, Newmarket, Suffolk, CB8 7UU, UK |
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English |
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| Notes |
PMID:17402457 |
Approved |
no |
| Call Number |
Equine Behaviour @ team @ |
Serial |
3703 |
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| Author |
Odberg, F.O.; Bouissou, M.F. |
| Title |
The development of equestrianism from the baroque period to the present day and its consequences for the welfare of horses |
Type |
Journal Article |
| Year |
1999 |
Publication |
Equine Veterinary Journal. Supplement |
Abbreviated Journal |
Equine Vet J Suppl |
| Volume |
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Issue |
28 |
Pages |
26-30 |
| Keywords |
Animal Husbandry/*history/standards; Animal Welfare/*history; Animals; Bonding, Human-Pet; History, 15th Century; History, 16th Century; History, 17th Century; History, 18th Century; History, 19th Century; History, 20th Century; *Horses; Humans; Stress/etiology/history/veterinary |
| Abstract |
Many saddle horses are slaughtered at a young age which could be indicative of a welfare problem. Bad riding is probably an underestimated source of poor welfare. Widespread knowledge of 'academic' riding should be encouraged and should be beneficial to all horses, at all schooling levels, for all purposes. In particular, 18th century principles tend to be forgotten and in this article the authors illustrate some differences to modern dressage. Various suggestions are made in order to improve welfare. |
| Address |
University of Ghent, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Heidestraat 19, B-9820, Merelbeke, Belgium |
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English |
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| Notes |
PMID:11314231 |
Approved |
no |
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Equine Behaviour @ team @ |
Serial |
3729 |
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Parkin, T.D.H.; Clegg, P.D.; French, N.P.; Proudman, C.J.; Riggs, C.M.; Singer, E.R.; Webbon, P.M.; Morgan, K.L. |
| Title |
Horse-level risk factors for fatal distal limb fracture in racing Thoroughbreds in the UK |
Type |
Journal Article |
| Year |
2004 |
Publication |
Equine Veterinary Journal |
Abbreviated Journal |
Equine Vet J |
| Volume |
36 |
Issue |
6 |
Pages |
513-519 |
| Keywords |
Animals; Athletic Injuries/epidemiology/mortality/*veterinary; Case-Control Studies; Female; Fractures, Bone/epidemiology/mortality/*veterinary; Great Britain/epidemiology; Horses/*injuries; Logistic Models; Male; Physical Conditioning, Animal/*adverse effects/mortality; Questionnaires; Radius Fractures/epidemiology/mortality/veterinary; Risk Factors; Survival Analysis; Tibial Fractures/epidemiology/mortality/veterinary |
| Abstract |
REASONS FOR PERFORMING STUDY: Fractures below the level of the radius or tibia (distal limb fractures) are the most common cause of equine fatality on UK racecourses; however, little is known about their epidemiology or aetiology. Identification of risk factors could enable intervention strategies to be designed to reduce the number of fatalities. OBJECTIVES: To identify horse-level risk factors for fatal distal limb fracture in Thoroughbreds on UK racecourses. METHODS: A case-control study design was used. Fractures in case horses were confirmed by post mortem examination and 3 matched uninjured controls were selected from the race in which the case horse was running. One hundred and nine cases were included and information was collected about previous racing history, horse characteristics and training schedules. Conditional logistic regression was used to identify the relationship between a number of independent variables and the likelihood of fracture. RESULTS: Horses doing no gallop work during training and those in their first year of racing were at significantly increased risk of fracture on the racecourse. Case horses were also more likely to have trained on a sand gallop, i.e. a gallop described by trainers as being primarily composed of sand. CONCLUSIONS: Modifications to training schedules, specifically within the first year of racing, may have a large impact on the risk of fatal distal limb fracture on the racecourse. Horses should do some gallop work in training and our results suggest that the minimum distance galloped should be between 805-2012 m (4-10 furlongs)/week. POTENTIAL RELEVANCE: The information from this study can be used to alter training schedules in an attempt to reduce the incidence of fatal distal limb fracture in Thoroughbred racehorses. Training should include some gallop work, and further studies, recording the exact level of work, will help to identify an optimum range of training speeds and distances which will reduce the liklihood of catastrophic fracture on the racecourse. |
| Address |
Department of Veterinary Clinical Science, University of Liverpool Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Leahurst, Neston, Wirral CH64 7TE, UK |
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English |
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0425-1644 |
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| Notes |
PMID:15460076 |
Approved |
no |
| Call Number |
Equine Behaviour @ team @ |
Serial |
3660 |
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| Author |
Parsons, K.J.; Wilson, A.M. |
| Title |
The use of MP3 recorders to log data from equine hoof mounted accelerometers |
Type |
Journal Article |
| Year |
2006 |
Publication |
Equine Veterinary Journal |
Abbreviated Journal |
Equine Vet J |
| Volume |
38 |
Issue |
7 |
Pages |
675-680 |
| Keywords |
Acceleration; Animals; Equipment and Supplies/standards/*veterinary; Hoof and Claw/*physiology; Horses/*physiology; Locomotion/*physiology; Physical Conditioning, Animal/*physiology; Reproducibility of Results; Running/physiology; Sensitivity and Specificity |
| Abstract |
REASONS FOR PERFORMING STUDy: MP3 recorders are readily available, small, lightweight and low cost, providing the potential for logging analogue hoof mounted accelerometer signals for the characterisation of equine locomotion. These, however, require testing in practice. OBJECTIVES: To test whether 1) multiple MP3 recorders can maintain synchronisation, giving the ability to synchronise independent recorders for the logging of multiple limbs simultaneously; and 2) features of a foot mounted accelerometer signal attributable to foot-on and foot-off can be accurately identified from horse foot mounted accelerometers logged directly into an MP3 recorder. METHODS: Three experiments were performed: 1) Maintenance of synchronisation was assessed by counting the number of samples recorded by each of 4 MP3 recorders while mounted on a trotting horse and over 2 consecutive 30 min periods in 8 recorders on a bench. 2) Foot-on and foot-off times obtained from manual transcription of MP3 logged data and directly logged accelerometer signal were compared. 3) MP3/accelerometer acquisition units were used to log accelerometer signals from racehorses during extended training sessions. RESULTS: Mean absolute error of synchronisation between MP3 recorders was 10 samples per million (compared to mean number of samples, range 1-32 samples per million). Error accumulation showed a linear correlation with time. Features attributable to foot on and foot off were equally identifiable from the MP3 recorded signal over a range of equine gaits. CONCLUSIONS: Multiple MP3 recorders can be synchronised and used as a relatively cheap, robust, reliable and accurate logging system when combined with an accelerometer and external battery for the specific application of the measurement of stride timing variables across the range of equine gaits during field locomotion. POTENTIAL RELEVANCE: Footfall timings can be used to identify intervals between the fore and hind contacts, the identification of diagonal advanced placement and to calculate stride timing variables (stance time, protraction time and stride time). These parameters are invaluable for the characterisation and assessment of equine locomotion. |
| Address |
Structure and Motion Laboratory, The Royal Veterinary College, North Mymms, Hatfield, Hertfordshire AL9 7TA, UK |
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English |
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0425-1644 |
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| Notes |
PMID:17228585 |
Approved |
no |
| Call Number |
Equine Behaviour @ team @ |
Serial |
4022 |
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