Cover Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association
Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association
ISSN:
0003-1488
Publication Date:
15 Nov 2008
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Successful treatment of head shaking by use of infrared diode laser deflation and coagulation of corpora nigra cysts and behavioral modification in a horse

Jeannine M. BergerDepartment of Medicine and Epidemiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA 95616

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Stephanie A. BellVeterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA 95616

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Bradford J. HolmbergVeterinary Referral Centre, 48 Notch Rd, Little Falls, NJ 07424

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John E. MadiganDepartment of Medicine and Epidemiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA 95616

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DOI:
https://doi.org/10.2460/javma.233.10.1610
Volume/Issue:
Volume 233: Issue 10
Online Publication Date:
15 Nov 2008
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Abstract

Case Description—A 15-year-old Saddlebred gelding used for competitive pleasure driving had a 1-year history of head shaking while pulling a cart.

Clinical Findings—The horse had cystic corpora nigra in both eyes and concomitant classic and operant conditioned responses to wearing a bridle with bilateral eye covers (blinkers).

Treatment and Outcome—Deflation and coagulation of the cysts with an infrared diode laser and behavior modification consisting of desensitization and counterconditioning were used to successfully restore performance.

Clinical Relevance—Behavioral changes in horses can result from a combination of physical and psychologic causes. A combination of appropriate medical treatment of physical abnormalities and a behavioral modification plan is necessary to successfully treat behavioral problems in these patients.

Abstract

Case Description—A 15-year-old Saddlebred gelding used for competitive pleasure driving had a 1-year history of head shaking while pulling a cart.

Clinical Findings—The horse had cystic corpora nigra in both eyes and concomitant classic and operant conditioned responses to wearing a bridle with bilateral eye covers (blinkers).

Treatment and Outcome—Deflation and coagulation of the cysts with an infrared diode laser and behavior modification consisting of desensitization and counterconditioning were used to successfully restore performance.

Clinical Relevance—Behavioral changes in horses can result from a combination of physical and psychologic causes. A combination of appropriate medical treatment of physical abnormalities and a behavioral modification plan is necessary to successfully treat behavioral problems in these patients.

Contributor Notes

Address correspondence to Dr. Berger.