Application of Orthotic Therapy for Gait Improvement in Aged Goats and Sheep with Joint Deformities

We gradually introduced custom-fitted leather and neoprene orthoses to aged goats and sheep with age-related carpal and tarsal joint deformities.Refinement of the molding technique reduced the restraint time and significantly enhanced acceptance of the orthoses, resulting in improvements in gait stability, standing maintenance ability, and daily activity.This case series suggests that orthotic management is an effective therapeutic strategy for maintaining the quality of life (QOL) and improving the welfare of aged ruminants.