J.D. Wheat Veterinary Orthopedic Research Laboratory

The J.D. Wheat Veterinary Orthopedic Research Laboratory at the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine is the leader in advancing knowledge of equine musculoskeletal problems. It houses state-of-the-art equipment and fosters a creative environment for basic and clinically applied equine musculoskeletal research. Dr. Susan Stover, a former trainee of Dr. Wheat, has directed faculty work in collaboration with other clinicians and scientists to continue improving our understanding of equine musculoskeletal diseases.

The group has authored multiple publications, trained numerous graduate students, clinical residents, visiting fellows and veterinary students. In addition to presentations at scientific meetings, the researchers have made a number of presentations to industry stakeholders and written articles for horse owners and trainers.

The laboratory derives funding support from competitive granting agencies, research sponsors and industry members. In 1997, a major gift from the Dolly Green Foundation ensured, in perpetuity, the laboratory’s future and further increased its competitiveness for sponsored research that directly benefits the equine industry.
The laboratory is focused on factors that can be managed by the industry, thereby facilitating implementation and change for injury prevention. These factors include racing surface and horseshoe interface, training and rehabilitation regimes, and integrative methods of treatment.