Reducing Risk of DOD

A study in France looked at 401 foals from 3 breeds on 21 farms for the incidence of developmental orthopedic disease (DOD) or osteochondrosis (OC). Data as to growth, feeding practices, and exercise conditions were collected from the mare’s eighth month of pregnancy until foals were weaned at approximately six month of age. The carpus, front and hind digits, hock, and stifle of each foal were radiographed at the end of the study to determine the presence of DOD (47%) or OC (36%).

The authors of the study stated, “Risk was significantly increased for DOD and for OC in Warmblood foals compared to Thoroughbreds; in foals with a high wither height at 30 days of age; and in foals with a rapid increase of wither height (for DOD only).” Very large pasture area and irregular exercise were also significant risk factors. The authors concluded, “In order to reduce the prevalence of DOD or OC in foals, following the growth and reducing nutritional supply in subjects growing fast, limiting the size of pasture areas offered and providing regular exercise to foals seem appropriate.”