Date on Honors Thesis

Spring 5-2024

Major

Pre-Veterinary Medicine

Minor

Chemistry

Examining Committee Member

Johanna Choate, DVM, Advisor

Examining Committee Member

Laura Hoffman, DVM, Committee Member

Examining Committee Member

Shea Porr, PhD, Committee Member

Abstract/Description

Equine asthma, including both mild and severe forms, is a prominent respiratory disease impacting the health and performance levels of affected horses. The objective of this study was to conduct a comprehensive assessment of a broad equine population, analyzing various disease aspects in relation to prevalence and severity across the nine climate regions in the United States. The methodology followed a survey-based research design, utilizing convenience and voluntary response sampling methods. Data collection involved 86 respondents across these regions. Quantitative and qualitative questions explored prevalence rates, diseases manifestation, risk factor of age, seasonality components, and diagnostic and management strategies from each region. Statistical analyses compared quantitative data between the climate regions and between the two severity levels of equine asthma. Results indicated significant variations in both prevalence and severity across different regions, and in age at diagnosis between severe and mild forms. The findings also revealed diagnostic and treatment patterns within specific regions, as well as consistent trends in age and seasonal impacts extending beyond geographic boundaries. This project emphasized the intricate nature of equine asthma, and the necessity for future research in considering environmental and geographic influences on the development and exacerbation of the disease.

Download

Share

COinS