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Influência da Saúde Oral no Desempenho Desportivo e Bem Estar do Cavalo de Desporto
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Atendendo à natureza hipsodôntica da dentição dos cavalos, caracterizada por uma erupção
contínua ao longo da vida, torna-se imperativa a implementação de medidas de acompanhamento
odontológico regular, devido à probabilidade de desenvolvimento de anomalias de oclusão,
suscetíveis de comprometer a mastigação e consequentemente a condição corporal e o desempenho
desportivo dos animais.
A presente dissertação visa analisar a relação entre a saúde oral e o desempenho desportivo
em cavalos de desporto, em território nacional, tendo como base a perceção dos intervenientes da
comunidade equestre. A análise baseou-se numa metodologia quantitativa, através da partilha de um
questionário online, tendo obtido uma amostra representativa de 200 participantes (n=200),
incluindo cavaleiros, treinadores, criadores, médicos veterinários e estudantes de áreas com ligação
ao mundo equestre.
A análise estatística permitiu verificar uma correlação significativa (p<0,001) entre a
frequência das correções odontológicas e a perceção de melhorias nos parâmetros de aceitação da
embocadura, treino montado e condição física. Adicionalmente, foram identificadas discrepâncias
regionais nos padrões das intervenções, tendo sido registadas assimetrias no que diz respeito ao
conhecimento e regularidade de intervenções odontológicas. Salienta-se, contudo, que a esmagadora
maioria dos procedimentos (96%) é realizada por médicos veterinários, o que constitui um dado
importante no que diz respeito à realização adequada e segurança técnica dos atos praticados.
Os resultados evidenciaram um elevado grau de consciencialização relativamente à
importância dos cuidados dentários equinos, sendo consensual o reconhecimento do impacto
positivo das intervenções odontológicas no bem-estar e na performance dos animais. Contudo
permanece fundamental o reforço de estratégias de formação e sensibilização direcionadas aos
intervenientes do setor equestre, de modo a consolidar uma abordagem preventiva e sistemática. A
manutenção de uma boa saúde oral, isenta de patologias e desconforto, não só contribui para a
otimização do desempenho desportivo, como constitui um fator determinante para a promoção do
bem-estar, longevidade e qualidade de vida dos equinos, numa perspetiva integrada de medicina
veterinária preventiva.
Given the hypsodontic nature of the equine dentition, characterized by continuous eruption throughout life, the implementation of regular dental monitoring measures becomes imperative due to the likelihood of developing occlusal abnormalities, which can compromise food ingestion and consequently have an impact on body condition and athletic performance. This dissertation aims to examine the relationship between oral health and performance in sport horses in Portugal, based on the perceptions of stakeholders within the equestrian community. The analysis followed a quantitative methodology, using an online questionnaire, which yielded a representative sample of 200 participants (n=200), including riders, trainers, breeders, veterinarians, and students from fields related to the equestrian sector. Statistical analysis revealed a significant correlation (P < 0,001) between the frequency of dental alignments and the perceived improvements regarding bit acceptance, rideability, and physical condition. Additionally, regional discrepancies were identified in the intervention patterns, with asymmetries observed regarding knowledge and the regularity of dental procedures. It is noteworthy, however, that most procedures (96%) are performed by veterinarians, which is a relevant finding in terms of ensuring the technical adequacy and safety of the procedures carried out. The results revealed a high level of awareness regarding the importance of equine dental care, with a broad consensus on the positive impact of odontological interventions on both animal welfare and performance. Nevertheless, the reinforcement of training and awareness strategies directed at equestrian stakeholders remains essential to strengthen a preventive and systematic approach. Maintaining good oral health, free of pathologies and discomfort, not only contributes to enhance the athletic performance but also constitutes a key factor in promoting equine welfare, longevity, and quality of life, within an integrated perspective of preventive veterinary medicine.
Given the hypsodontic nature of the equine dentition, characterized by continuous eruption throughout life, the implementation of regular dental monitoring measures becomes imperative due to the likelihood of developing occlusal abnormalities, which can compromise food ingestion and consequently have an impact on body condition and athletic performance. This dissertation aims to examine the relationship between oral health and performance in sport horses in Portugal, based on the perceptions of stakeholders within the equestrian community. The analysis followed a quantitative methodology, using an online questionnaire, which yielded a representative sample of 200 participants (n=200), including riders, trainers, breeders, veterinarians, and students from fields related to the equestrian sector. Statistical analysis revealed a significant correlation (P < 0,001) between the frequency of dental alignments and the perceived improvements regarding bit acceptance, rideability, and physical condition. Additionally, regional discrepancies were identified in the intervention patterns, with asymmetries observed regarding knowledge and the regularity of dental procedures. It is noteworthy, however, that most procedures (96%) are performed by veterinarians, which is a relevant finding in terms of ensuring the technical adequacy and safety of the procedures carried out. The results revealed a high level of awareness regarding the importance of equine dental care, with a broad consensus on the positive impact of odontological interventions on both animal welfare and performance. Nevertheless, the reinforcement of training and awareness strategies directed at equestrian stakeholders remains essential to strengthen a preventive and systematic approach. Maintaining good oral health, free of pathologies and discomfort, not only contributes to enhance the athletic performance but also constitutes a key factor in promoting equine welfare, longevity, and quality of life, within an integrated perspective of preventive veterinary medicine.
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Palavras-chave
Saúde oral equina Hipsodontia Bem-estar animal Correções odontológicas Equine oral health Hypsodonty Animal welfare Dental alignment