The study of equine anatomy and physiology involves learning about an animal’s parts, processes, and how the whole body works. All the individual parts of an animal’s body are not only physically connected, but also very functionally interrelated. Normal structure and function of an animal’s parts are incredibly important to their overall health and survival. Our ability to help them lead a functional and healthy athletic life depends largely on having a strong understanding of how their body is meant to function.
While understanding how your horse’s body works is only one necessary component to helping them perform at their best, it is one that is often overlooked.
ANATOMY: the physical form, structure & location of parts
PHYSIOLOGY: how those parts work/ their function
The structural configurations (anatomy) are both slightly simpler to learn, and necessary for a sound understanding of how the body functions. Therefor, this website will dive fully into helping you gain a deep understanding of Equine Anatomy before branching off into the physiology side [with a few functional fun facts along the way!].
Having a clear understanding of how your horse is built is beneficial in so many ways! It can come in handy when evaluating a potential horse for purchase, examining soundness & health issues with your veterinarian or farrier, and creating a plan to optimize your horse/s soundness, health, movement, comfort, and performance.
Our studies will begin with macroscopic, or gross anatomy, meaning we will begin by looking at structures large enough to be seen by the naked eye (ie. bones, muscles, and organs). Topics will be grouped according to location and systems. To help you tie it all together several other aspects of training or care will be touched on as well.
Enjoy…and get studying – your horse will thank you!