animal successes » horses
At Morris Animal Foundation, we recognize that horses are not only powerful, athletic creatures, but also are beloved companions. That's why in 1959, we expanded our health studies to include these strong but often gentle animals. Here are a few examples of how we've improved equine health. Learn more about our current studies.
- Potomac Horse Fever Vaccine:
MAF contributed to the discovery of the cause, treatment and vaccine development for Potomac horse fever. - Equine Health Initiative:
Launched in 2006, the Equine Health Initiative is the largest equine health campaign in the organization's history. The first project, the Equine Consortium for Genetic Research, involves 32 scientists from 18 elite academic institutions throughout nine countries. This project has tremendous potential for preventing and treating diseases with heritable risk factors. - Development of Equine Genome:
A series of Foundation–funded studies provided important genetic information used in the development of the equine genome. The work led to a proposal to the National Human Genome Research Institute that allowed researchers to conduct a whole genome sequence for the horse. - Pain Relief for Horses:
Research studies proved the pain–relieving effects of acupuncture and electro–acupuncture in horses. Another study developed a new technique that uses catheters to alleviate pain in the equine forelimb. This technique could be particularly beneficial in cases, such as equine laminitis, where the horse may otherwise need to be euthanized due to severe pain. - Gene Discovery for CID:
A series of Foundation–funded studies led to a genetic test to detect carriers of Combined Immunodeficiency Disease (CID), an inherited disease that inhibits a foal's ability to fight infection. - Identification of Tying–Up Inheritance:
A series of Foundation–funded grants determined that Recurrent Exertional Rhabdomyolysis (RER), or "tying–up," is inherited in the Thoroughbred horse. - New Pain Approach for Colic Cases:
Researchers learned a commonly used pain reliever, flunixin meglumine, slows the intestinal repair process in horses that have undergone colic surgery, indicating that this drug should be used sparingly in colic cases. - Novel Therapy for Eye Cancer:
Researchers developed a novel approach using photodynamic therapy to successfully treat a type of cancer that affects the eye and surrounding area of horses.
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