The Master of Science Seminar and Examination of Fabian J. Roa

Biography

Completed two post-graduate internships in equine veterinary medicine and surgery in private practice. (Weatherford Equine, Texas and Dubai Equine, UAE respectively).

Currently the Equine Field Service resident at VMCVM pursuing board certification in Equine Practice through the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners while simultaneously pursuing a Master of Science degree in Veterinary Sciences at Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine.

Funded by

• VMCVM Office of Research and Graduate Studies
• Equine Research Competition

Awards and Academic Achievements

• DVM -Universidad Veritas, San Jose Costa Rica 2019

Lay Language Abstract 

The equine hoof plays a crucial role in absorbing impact and maintaining blood flow as a horse moves. However, different types of horseshoes may influence this natural hoof movement. This study examined how two common types of aluminum horseshoes (traditional nail-on shoes and glue-on fabric cuff shoes) affect heel movement in horses of various breeds and disciplines.

Fifteen healthy horses were tested under three conditions: barefoot, wearing aluminum nail-on shoes, and wearing glue-on fabric cuff shoes. A specialized sensor measured heel expansion while the horses walked and trotted on both hard (asphalt) and soft (arena footing) surfaces.

The results showed that barefoot horses had the most heel movement, while both types of shoes restricted displacement. The glue-on shoes allowed for slightly more movement than nail-on shoes at the trot, but no significant difference was observed at the walk. This study highlights the importance of understanding how different shoeing methods affect hoof function. While shoes are necessary for protection and performance, they can also impact natural hoof movement. The findings may help veterinarians and farriers make informed decisions when selecting shoes for different horses. Future research should explore additional shoe materials and designs that better preserve natural hoof function while meeting the demands of performance and therapeutic needs.

Publications

Comparative Study of Heel Movement and Foot Biomechanics in Aluminum Nail-On and Indirect Glue-On Fabric Cuff Shoes in Horses. (Manuscript in progress for publication on Equine Veterinary Journal this fall)

Neuroendocrine Mammary Carcinoma in a Mare. (Case report submitted for publication to Journal of Veterinary Diagnostic Investigation- collaboration with University of Florida and UC Davis)

Presentations

Fall 2022: EGUS

Spring 2023: Medical management and rehabilitation plan for acute injury of the lateral branch of the suspensory ligament in 18yo hunter jumper gelding.

Fall 2023: Management of pyometra in the mare; prognosis and treatment options.

Spring 2024: Literature review in advanced reproductive techniques in the mare.

Fall 2024: Medical management of septic P3 osteitis: case report and literature review

Spring 2025: Using the anestrous mare as an option embryo recipient.

Examination Graduate Committee

Major Advisor/Chair:

Dr. Christopher Byron DVM, Msc, DACVS
Department Head
Large Animal Clinical Sciences Department

Dr. Amy Santonastaso VMD, Msc, DABVP (Equine)
Equine Field Service, Service Chief
Large Animal Clinical Sciences Department

Graduate Advising Committee Members:

Travis Burns, MSc, CJF, TE, EE, FWCF
Hospital Administrator, VTH Professor of Practice; Chief of Farrier Services
Large Animal Clinical Sciences Department

Raffaella De Vita, PhD
Professor Associate, Department Head
Mechanical Engineering

Lauren Trager-Burns, DVM, MS, DACVSMR
Clinical Assistant Professor – Equine Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation
Large Animal Clinical Sciences Department

Rebecca Funk, DVM, MS, DACVIM
Clinical Assistant Professor
Large Animal Clinical Sciences Department