ODONTOPLASTIA NO DESEMPENHO E NA CONDIÇÃO CORPORAL DE EQUINOS ATLETAS: relato de caso

Abstract

Performance in physical activity is fundamental for competitive horses, and dental treatment can play a crucial role in this process, influencing comfort and execution of exercises in a more attentive way to training, in addition to generating animal well- being. Research into the impact of dental treatment on the physical performance of competition horses is limited, but it is known that dental problems can negatively affect horses' ability to feed adequately, affecting their energy, stamina and ability to maintain optimal physical condition. The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of odontoplasty on the athletic performance and body score condition of competition horses in barrel racing. We observed the sporting development of three Quarter Horses, aged between 3 and 5 years old, on a diet based on hay, feed and minerals, before and after dental treatment, evaluating their weight gain and sporting performance during training. for the drum test. Comparisons were made of performance improvement, how much on average the animals improved (how much less time the animals took the tests), how much on average they gained in weight. Carrying out dental treatment for competition horses resulted in a reduction in average race time of around 1.42” and an increase in average daily weight of 49.33 g/day per animal. It is concluded that horses undergoing an odontoplasty procedure, competing in the three-barrel modality, present better athletic performance and increased body score condition, reducing track times and maintaining an adequate body and nutritional score for competitions as they are able to eat better. and maintain good body balance. It was also noted the need for more studies that can evaluate the influence of dental care on the sporting performance of athletic horses.