The disorder Shivers and other muscle diseases were discussed in a recent webcast presented by Stephanie Valberg, professor and director of the University of Minnesota Equine Center.
 Dr Stephanie Valberg
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"Shivers" is a disorder in horses that has been recognized for centuries. It has also been puzzling equine experts for just as long. Shivers is considered both common and rare, affects both genders, appears at all ages, and is principally reported in draft horse breeds.
The webcast, offered by My Horse University and the University of Minnesota Horse Extension Program, focused on shivers and other equine muscle diseases.
Recent advances in genetic research were highlighted, and Valberg reviewed the variety of symptoms that occur with shivers, the progression of symptoms and possible causes.
The webcast was the third in a series titled, "Equine Genetics: A New Diagnostic Resource for Horse Owners," and is funded by a grant from the US Department of Agriculture's National Research Initiative. Future programs will focus on managing equine metabolic syndrome and advances in equine genetics.
The webcast series is one part of a larger outreach and Extension effort to provide research-based information on horse genetics through online and in-person programs and printed materials.
Recent advances in genetic technology, starting with the sequencing of the human genome in 2001, have led to a much greater understanding of genetics. Scientists and physicians are recognizing the role of genetics not only in visible traits but more importantly, in invisible traits that have a great influence on health and disease.
The same techniques used to sequence the human genome are now being applied to domestic animal species, including the horse. The equine genome was completely sequenced in early 2007. Since then researchers have developed the genetic tools necessary to research both simple and complex genetic traits in horses.
"The University of Minnesota is glad to partner with My Horse University to bring online education opportunities on equine genetics to horse owners across the nation. We are also grateful to the National Research Institute for granting this research and extension (outreach) proposal," says Krishona Martinson, an equine Extension specialist at the University of Minnesota.
My Horse University is a national online horse management program for horse enthusiasts. Founded by the MSU Department of Animal Science, MSU Extension and MSU Global, this program offers equine education courses and resources that can be tailored to achieve horse management goals.
The University of Minnesota Extension Horse Program provides research-based information to adult horse owners to improve the quality of care for the animals and their facilities. The program focus is on horse care, health and nutrition.
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