FEA of ungulates digits and material research of hoof horn

Bovine hoof (claw) horn, equine hoof horn and hoof horn of donkeys has been of interest for modern research since the end of the 19th century. The three species have their place in human society as economic factor (bovines), as mainly sport animals (equines) and as working and pet animals (donkeys). For all three the old horseman`s phrase "no hoof - no horse" is equally valid. The single animal`s welfare, its achievements in sport and its productivity are to a major extent dependent on the soundness and function of the hoof and the digit. Pathologies of the ungulates digits include horn defects and inflammations of the horn producing lamina, hoof cracks and instabilities, hoof diseases including the underlying soft tissue and/or bony structures, traumatic injuries and the orthopaedic complex of arthritis, degenerative joint disease, desmitis and tendonitis. Many researchers to date have dealt with investigations concerning materials properties of hoof horn and their relation to housing and diseases. Nevertheless, some topics are still not covered. The proposed research includes hardness testing of donkey hoof horn, determination of the modulus of elasticity of diseased hoof horn of horses and donkeys, accompanied histological investigations and the determination of trace elements in defined sections of the hooves and the construction of a finite element model of a horses and a donkey`s digit. Finite element analysis will bring new knowledge and information concerning the biomechanics of the hooves and the digits. It will be possible to evaluate beforehand the potential effects of horse shoeing, hoof therapy, stabilization methods and of different floorings. In addition, the resulting graphics are clear and descriptive and will support and improve all didactic devices for veterinary and farrier education. All data and results together have the great potential of improving animal welfare through hoof soundness.