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Kentucky Derby champion Barbaro, supported by jockey Edgar Prado (C) and a handler (R), sustained an injury to his right hind leg during the 131st Preakness Stakes at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, Maryland, on May 20, 2006. Despite extensive veterinary efforts, Barbaro was ultimately euthanized. PAUL J. RICHARDS/AFP via Getty ImagesIn the days of the Wild West, a horse with a broken leg often met its end from a cowboy's firearm. Horses were typically shot after such injuries due to the slim odds of recovery. Even in modern times, euthanasia remains a common outcome for horses with broken legs.
The primary reason lies in the challenges of healing a horse's leg. Their legs endure immense stress as they support their large bodies during high-speed gallops. Constant physical exertion can weaken their leg bones over time, increasing the risk of fractures and falls.
Another factor to consider is the number of bones in a horse's legs. Of the 205 bones in a horse's body, 80 are found in its legs [sources: O'Brien and Sellnow]. The intricate network of joints, bones, ligaments, tendons, cartilage, lubricant, laminate, and hooves that enable a horse's remarkable speed can also lead to its vulnerability. Additionally, 58 percent of a horse's weight is supported by its front legs, which is why most injuries occur there [source: Swann Equine Osteopathy].
Horses' legs are susceptible to various issues, including inflammation, osteoarthritis, joint disorders, diseases, and fractures. Recovery is particularly challenging because horses cannot remain lying down throughout their healing process. Horses are naturally inclined to stand for extended periods, even while sleeping. As a prey species, they need to be prepared to flee quickly, which explains why they remain on their hooves [source: Tikkanen].
That said, euthanasia is no longer the only option. Advances in surgical methods and technology now provide viable solutions that were previously unavailable for horses in such conditions.
Can You Fix a Horse's Broken Leg?
Dr. Nat White and his surgical team are shown preparing for arthroscopic knee surgery on a horse at the Marion duPont Scott Equine Medical Center in Leesburg, Virginia. Jahi Chikwendiu/The Washington Post via Getty ImagesWhile euthanasia remains a common outcome for horses with broken legs, the process is now typically carried out more humanely, often through an intravenous injection of barbiturates administered by a veterinarian [source: Nessom]. (The American Association of Equine Practitioners does state that a gunshot to the brain is acceptable, ideally after sedation.)
Leg injuries aren't limited to racehorses; even small ponies can suffer from them. Beyond kicks and collisions, simple mishaps like missteps can lead to severe fractures and injuries. Factors such as fatigue and the horse's musculoskeletal structure can also play a role. Preexisting conditions like tendon strains, hairline fractures, and microfractures, which are often hard to detect, can further increase the risk of broken bones.
In the unfortunate event of a horse breaking its leg, several factors come into play to determine whether a veterinarian can successfully repair the injury and restore the animal to health [source: Equnews]. Owners of injured horses should consider the following questions:
- How severe is the fracture? The nature of the break significantly influences the likelihood of recovery. Fractures range from incomplete cracks, where the bone doesn't fully separate, to complete breaks that may shatter the bone. Incomplete fractures are more manageable, while severe or multiple fractures often lead to euthanasia. Breaks where bone fragments pierce the skin are particularly concerning due to the higher risk of complications.
- What is the horse's age? Younger horses generally have a better prognosis due to their still-developing bones and lighter weight, which reduces stress on the injury.
- Where is the fracture located? The healing potential varies depending on the bone's location. For instance, lower leg fractures are challenging to heal due to limited blood supply, and breaks in larger bones can prolong recovery.
Innovative treatments for horses are emerging, such as a robotic lift system introduced by University of Saskatchewan researchers in 2016. This technology aids in the recovery of fractures and post-surgery healing by evenly distributing weight, allowing the injured area to mend more effectively [source: Williams]. Additionally, advancements like the double plate fixation method have shown promising results, though its high cost and the lengthy recovery process deter many veterinarians from adopting it [source: Preigh].
You might wonder, "If a horse's broken leg is so challenging to heal, why not let nature decide the outcome?" In the next section, we'll explain why this approach is not advisable.
Efforts to reduce racehorse injuries include the use of synthetic materials in racetrack construction. For instance, Polytrack(TM) features a top layer made of silica sand, fiber, and recycled materials [source: Monaco]. Its absorbent layers create a cushioned surface that minimizes shock and reduces the risk of missteps or leg twists. While exercise is vital for horse health, adequate rest after injuries or stress is equally important. Nutritional supplements can also support strong hooves, joints, and bones.
Complications of Treating a Broken Leg
Younger horses are more likely to recover fully from a broken leg. Tabitha Roth/Getty ImagesEven if an owner opts to attempt healing a broken leg, numerous complications can arise during recovery. Painful conditions may develop, leading some to believe euthanasia is a more humane option than allowing the horse to endure prolonged suffering.
Amputating a broken leg rarely saves a horse's life. Unlike dogs, which can thrive on three legs, horses' weight and balance make it nearly impossible for them to function with only three limbs. Their inability to rise or lie down properly further complicates their survival.
Adapting to prostheses is challenging for most horses. Success depends on the horse's overall health, adaptability, and an owner's commitment to time-intensive and costly follow-up care. The injury's size, type, and location also play a critical role in determining prosthetic viability [source: Henry].
Treating a broken leg in horses comes with numerous complications. Below are some examples of issues that can hinder recovery:
- Weight: Horses are large animals with relatively small legs and hooves. When a horse favors a broken leg, the additional weight on the healthy limbs can lead to debilitating conditions like laminitis and abscesses [source: American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP)]. Laminitis, an inflammatory condition affecting the tissue connecting the hoof to the bone, often results in euthanasia due to its severity. While slings can temporarily relieve weight from the legs, they may cause discomfort, bedsores, and gastrointestinal issues. Prolonged use can also prevent proper weight distribution, increasing the risk of laminitis [source: Young].
- Movement: Horses are naturally active, and restricting their movement during recovery can be challenging. A calmer horse that tolerates limited mobility has a better chance of healing without reinjury.
- Infection: Open fractures are prone to infection, which is harder to treat in areas with limited blood flow, such as below the hock joints. Administering antibiotics can disrupt the horse's gut flora and interfere with pain management [source: Equine Medical Care].
- Pain: Managing pain in horses is a delicate balance. Overmedication can mask pain, leading to reinjury, while insufficient pain relief can cause suffering. Severe pain from conditions like laminitis often leads to euthanasia.
- Cost: The financial burden of rehabilitating a horse with a broken leg is significant, with no guarantee of success. Limited access to specialized facilities and expertise further complicates recovery efforts.
Barbaro, the 2006 Kentucky Derby champion, faced a tragic end after a fall at the Preakness Stakes. Despite months of recovery efforts, complications led to his euthanasia on Jan. 29, 2007. Similarly, Eight Belles, the 2008 Kentucky Derby runner-up, was euthanized on the track after breaking both front ankles post-race. In 2016, Pramedya also succumbed to injuries sustained during a race. These cases highlight the sobering reality of horse racing, with the Jockey Club reporting a fatality rate of 1.62 per 1,000 starts [source: AP].
