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Arabian Horses Research Paper

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Genetic Abnormalities Common in Arabian Horses

Arabian horses have been around for thousands of years, originating in the Arabian Peninsula. They were first bred by the Bedouins to be strong endurance animals, capable of surviving in an unforgiving desert environment (Discover). The Bedouins formed strong bonds with their horses, sharing resources and shelter with their four legged companions. As a result of both their incredible stamina and lifelong loyalty, the Arabian has been remarkably well preserved since their inception (Discover). Today, they are found not only in the Middle East but all over the world. With their trademark dished face, arched neck, and incredible stamina, Arabians are still one of the most popular horse breeds …show more content…

Because they have no antibody protection, most die before they are three months old from an infection or disease that their body cannot fight off (Bailey). Since it is recessive, a foal could only inherit the disease if both of its parents were carriers, and only about eight percent of Arabians in the United States are carriers (Bailey). If two carriers were bred, there would be a staggering twenty-five percent chance that a foal would be born with SCID. Since carriers show no symptoms of the condition, there is a genetic test for SCID to determine whether or not an animal is a carrier (Bailey). While rare, genetic testing is an invaluable tool to make sure that condition is not passed on. SCID can easily be avoided and healthy foals can be produced.

Equine Cerebellar Abiotrophy While the cause of Equine Cerebellar Abiotrophy remains a mystery, the effects of ECA are deadly. ECA causes degeneration of neurons in the cerebellum, causing the horse to lose the ability to balance and are prone to head tremors (Johnson). These horses do not reach adulthood as they are euthanized due to the degenerative nature of the condition. There is no cure for ECA, but only a foal produced from two carriers has a chance to inherit the disease (Johnson). There is also a genetic test for ECA, so this disease, like the others, can be avoided entirely by …show more content…

This can result in a range of symptoms, including anything from a lack of coordination all the way to full limb paralysis (Watson). While some foals are unable to stand at birth due to OAAM, some may not show symptoms until weeks after birth. A radiograph is used to determine whether or not a foal is affected, and there is currently no test available for OAAM, as there is still not a lot known about this disease (Watson). Research is still being conducted, so hopefully questions will soon be answered about this disorder that almost exclusively impacts

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