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Swayback

Swayback describes a condition in which the spine of a quadruped, most commonly a horse, dips downwards between the withers (the highest point of the shoulders) and the croup (the area around the tail). This curvature gives the back a sagging or drooping appearance, resembling a gentle, concave arch. It's often associated with weakened spinal ligaments, muscle atrophy, or age-related changes. The condition can potentially affect the animal's gait, stamina, and overall performance, making it an important physical characteristic to monitor in working and athletic animals.

Swayback meaning with examples

  • The aging horse, sadly, developed a pronounced swayback over the years. The curvature made it harder for him to bear the weight of a rider, and his once powerful gallop became labored. The farrier noted the condition during his routine checkup, and the owner made plans to retire him to pasture.
  • Veterinarians often assess swayback in horses through visual examination, palpation of the spine, and observation of their movement. Early detection is crucial to managing the condition effectively, especially if the horse is used for riding or other activities. Diagnostic tests like radiographs can help to assess the severity.
  • Some breeds of horses are more prone to developing swayback than others, and genetics may contribute to the risk. Responsible horse owners will want to be aware of their horse's genetic make-up, including their predisposition to this, and other related conditions, through careful bloodline review.
  • The saddle didn't fit the swaybacked horse correctly, which caused the owner to switch his horses. The improper fit put pressure on the horse's spine, exacerbating his condition. Regular saddle fitting and proper care are crucial to maintain the horse's well being and longevity.

Swayback Crossword Answers

6 Letters

DIPPED

8 Letters

LORDOTIC

10 Letters

SWAYBACKED

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