Rear Limb Differences, Essay Example

Introduction

The rear limbs of different types of animals possess different characteristics which distinguish their mobility and gait. Each animal offers a unique anatomical approach to mobility that supports their overall movement, strength, and muscle development. Therefore, to address these differences as well as similarities, it is important to consider the hind leg anatomies of three different animals in greater detail: the dog, the cow, and the horse. These considerations will play an important role in determining how these animals walk, move around, and conduct their normal activities in their natural habitats.

Analysis

For horses, there is a unique configuration of the hind legs that includes the development of strong and lean muscles that are able to hold significant weight and promote a normal gait and a powerful stance (The Russell Meerdink Co). In dogs, the hind legs are very different from the forelegs in that the hind legs are generally stronger and allow the dog to stand straight, while the forelegs have greater flexibility (Wentink 179). In cows, the hind legs represent a connection to the pelvic area with a ball and socket joint that brings the two areas together (Atkins 6). This association supports the more even weight allocation between the two hind legs, rather than depending on one leg more than the other to carry the cow’s large weight (Atkins 6). Therefore, it is possible for the cow to develop a more even center of gravity through this type of weight allocation (Atkins 6).

With respect to the movement of the horse and dog hind limbs, they are primarily used for movement of these animals from place to place (Wentink 180). In particular, dogs possess the ability to use their hind legs and digits not only to move around, but to grip the ground and objects, as well as gain speed for running (Wentink 180). However, the horse uses its hind legs in order to lift and to expand its level of stamina to run lengthy distances (Wentink 180). These efforts enable both animals to move about properly and without any difficulty in their daily lives. Nonetheless, there are risks to both animals in the form of pulled muscles or tendons that could lead to limited mobility, limping, and other conditions, some of which may worsen with age and disease (Wentink 180). In cows, their excessive weight may pose a concern over time because this weight places greater strain on their hind legs and mobility, thereby leading to limitations that could include other parts of the anatomy, including the udders (Atkins 6).

Conclusion

Animals such as cows, dogs, and horses possess unique anatomical characteristics that distinguish them from other animals. In addition, these animals typically use their hind legs not only to support their weight but also to move around. In the case of horses and dogs, their hind legs are used to gain speed and for running, but in the case of cows, their hind legs are used more for weight support and strength. Therefore, it is important to recognize these differences and similarities in order to determine how these animals utilize their hind legs and perform normal activities. The anatomies of each type of hind leg are different, yet they contribute to the overall mobility of these animals, even if speed is not a factor. There are considerable advantages to studying the anatomy of the hind legs in these animals in order to address specific challenges that each animal may face as they age and their mobility declines over time.

Works Cited

Atkins, Gordon. “Using conformational anatomy to identify functionality in dairy cows.” 1 November 2013: http://www.whff.info/info/conferences/ehc2007/10%20Using%20Conformational%20Anatomy%20to%20Identify%20Functionality%20in%20Dairy%20Cows.pdf

The Russell Meerdink Co. “Frequently asked questions: conformation.” 1 November 2013: http://www.horseinfo.com/info/faqs/faqconformQ5.html

Wentink, G.H. “Dynamics of the hind limb at walk in horse and dog.” Anatomy and Embryology 155(1979): 179-190.