Sounds like DSLD (Degenerative Suspensory Ligament Desmosis) (I THINK I got
that right...) It is most often associated with Peruvian Pasos, but it actually
occurs in many breeds...there's a lot of research on the web about it, try a
google search.
Subject: [RC] Horse with Dropped Fetlocks
(Not Endurance)
My neighbor's QH cross (TB?) is used only for rare and very
short pleasure rides. She has not been ridden in months. She is
allegedly 12 years old. Her overall conformation is rather odd but most
notable to my eye are her very long pasterns and very round
hooves.
I'm no expert but I would not have anticipated what happened
recently; her rear fetlocks have "dropped" alarmingly and she is in
discomfort, especially on one hind, on which she attempts to bear her
weight on the toe only. She is unshod and lives in a large dry
paddock (est. 50' x 125') which is almost entirely steep slope (decomposed
granite). Appears healthy otherwise.
Two farriers looked at the
horse and were baffled. Vet was summoned. He is also baffled,
suggests daily hand-walking to strengthen... something... I wasn't there
when he saw the horse so I'm getting this second hand.
Anyone have
experience or insight that you would share?
Please reply privately so
not to bore the list. Thanks.
