Up to 34 percent of horses of all ages experience some level of periodontal disease, but up to 60 percent of horses 13 years of age or older suffer from severe periodontal disease.

Wounds of the lower limbs of the horse can be challenging to treat successfully, especially those that may involve tendons, ligaments and synovial (joint) spaces.

Back problems are a common cause of poor performance in all horses — especially competitive horses, whose jumping ability may be diminished.

Elmont, N.Y. — Ruffian was considered by many to be the finest Thoroughbred filly in racing history. It is on the site of her burial that the Ruffian Equine Medical Center opened this year.

Pulmonary or systemic fungal infections in horses historically have resulted in a high mortality rate.

Kennett Square, Pa. — Research into the causes and treatment laminitis, along with wide-ranging collaboration are the driving forces behind the newly established Laminitis Institute at the University of Pennsylvania.

It's a painful, disfiguring disease that may strike horses as early as 2 years of age, then over time cause formation of large nodules that interfere with normal pastern movement, permanent skin ulceration and lameness, eventually leading to the animals' early demise.

Minerals, though they make up only a small percentage of the equine diet, are critical — especially for the health of foals.

A healing science that dates back thousands of years in another culture has gained acceptance in recent years as a method of diagnosing and treating lameness in horses.