Dr. Stuart Brown DVM from Hagyard Equine Medical Institute in Lexington Kentucky generously wrote this article on colic in foals following a number of inquiries and questions. This in-depth overview comes from his expertise in broodmare reproduction and routine primary care. Learn more about h...
Read MoreAnatomy / Pedigree
Photo courtesy of the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame
Conformation is the overall shape and structure of a horse, which is evaluated by looking at the bone structure, muscles and body proportions.
Good conformation starts with the bones - 205 bones make up the equine skeletal anatomy.
The horse skeletal structure is held together with ligaments, tendons and muscles.
The hocks, on the back legs of a horse, are similar to the ankle joint on a human skeleton. The hocks are essential for propelling a horse forward as they are the engine of the animal.
The hind quarters can propel the horse forward 40 miles an hour in six strides.
Horses have a range of vision that covers a combined 330 degrees. Humans have a range of vision of a combined 120 degrees.
Photo courtesy of the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame
Every thoroughbred's ancestry can be traced back to three foundation stallions imported to England in the 18th century: the Darley Arabian, the Byerly Turk and the Godolphin Arabian. These stallions are the forefathers of thoroughbred horses.