Zenyatta

Queen of Racing

Ask The Experts

Ask The Experts #11

Q:

A while back you had a great informational piece about hoof management for Baby Z. I was wondering what you do to take care of his teeth? Do horses have baby teeth they lose to make room for permanent teeth like humans?

Vicki Vinson

Apple Valley, CA

A: The oral cavity of a young growing horse is undergoing constant change. Unlike humans, horses have hypsodont teeth that are constantly erupting. From the time a foal is born to the time the horse is an adult, the number of teeth increases from 0-6 as a foal to 36-44 as a full mouthed adult. The average horse has a full mouth of 36-44 teeth (4 rows of 11) by the age of 4 years. During the first four years, it is important to routinely evaluate the oral cavity for congenital (born with) and developmental (acquired) disorders. If congenital and developmental disorders are not identified and addressed early, they may lead to more severe disorders.

A newborn foal is born with few teeth. The first incisors may be present at birth or can be just below the gingival surface. The first incisors typically erupt through the gingiva around 6-8 days of life. All of the incisors should be present by 6-9 months of age. The same is true for the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th pre-molars. They may be present at birth but they are generally exposed by two weeks of age. Three permanent molars erupt caudal (behind) to the premolars at 1, 2 & 3.5-4 years respectively.

Photo courtesy of Alys Emson/Lane’s End

As Baby Z grows up his teeth will be examined periodically to insure that they are erupting in the proper place, size and number. All foals at Lane’s End are examined at birth for any oral abnormalities. Foals are monitored daily for any illnesses or injuries and that includes the oral cavity. As Baby Z becomes a yearling he will have an oral exam performed twice a year to monitor normal tooth wear and eruption. If necessary, sharp enamel points that form on the outside of the upper tooth arcades and the inside of the lower tooth arcades will be reduced. This is most commonly known as “teeth floating.” Baby Z may also have his wolf-teeth or first pre-molars removed before he enters light breaking and training. Wolf-teeth may cause him discomfort when a bit is placed in his mouth and that could interfere with his training.

Routine oral care is a critical part of any annual wellness program. With oral exams once to twice a year, Baby Z will be sure to have a beautiful set of pearly whites to smile with in the winners circle!

Our Expert

Ernie Martinez II DVM

Hagyard Equine Dentistry

Dr. Martinez graduated from the Oklahoma State College of Veterinary Medicine in 2003. He completed an ambulatory internship at Hagyard Equine Medical Institute and became a Field Care Associate in 2004. His practice includes emergency field medicine, herd health and wellness, neonatal foal care, mare and stallion reproduction, and equine dentistry. Dr. Martinez is actively involved with veterinary medicine organizations, holding positions in the Kentucky Association of Equine Practitioners and the National American Association of Equine Practitioners. His wife practices small animal emergency medicine in Lexington, KY. They live in Versailles with their three year old son and two dogs.

Reader Interactions

889 Comments

      • / Reply

        I sooooo love that dark filly with the white blaze like AP’s. She is a dead ringer for her dad and such a very beautiful eye.

        • Sign. You’re right. They all have that same intelligent AP look in their eyes. The dark filly is exactly like her dad in expression. Do you think that Bernie is a little more like his mom?

        • Yes, that filly definately has AP’s eye and look.
          Bernie has some of his father’s traits, but
          Influenced by Cara Rafaella and her sire
          Quiet American. He has a more proud look.
          AP is proud looking but humble and I just love
          The way he ran with his head fully extended.

  4. / Reply

    I am unable to make a selection for the race today.

    Anyone else having this problem ????

    • / Reply

      Sign:

      Couldn’t make a bet! tried for like 3 hrs! rebooted my computer, tried everything! Not a happy girl, as I look forward to this all week! I really won’t be happy if my picks win and I couldn’t play!

      GirlSaratoga

      • / Reply

        I had to click on the pick I wanted then it came through
        And locked. Think they changed the computer
        Program.

  5. / Reply

    @ Judy Berube – Mints for Papa Charlie are on the way, should be there about Wednesday. Vic wants to know all about him, age, color, etc., etc., so perhaps you’ll be able to post a photo. I couldn’t answer any of her questions due to missing so many posts over the last several weeks so I’m curious too.
    Glad to hear that you like Are You Kidding Me, my hooves will be crossed this afternoon.

  6. / Reply

    Today’s Redneck installment on this HOT day ! in So. Cal.:

    ETIQUETTE TIPS FOR REDNECKS (Part 3 of 6): DATING (Outside the Family)

    – Always offer to bait your date’s hook, especially on the first date.

    – No matter how broke you are, never take your date flowers that were stolen from a cemetery. Except if they’re from the funeral of your own relative, it’s ok — that’s family.

    – Always allow your date first pick of any roadkill you run across.

    – At the movies, refrain from talking to characters on the screen. Our tests have proven they can’t hear you.

  7. / Reply

    Dear Paynter, I am still praying very hard for you today and every day. I remember back to Barbaro after a few month I thought he was going to get better and then he turned for the worse. I want you to beat this Paynter, just to let you know I’m not going to stop praying for you. Love You PUP

    Also, to Potesta you get well my girl. I am praying very hard for you now too.

  8. / Reply

    Dear Wise Dan:

    Listen up my Boy.

    “You show the Euro’s how its done tomorrow”
    You show everybody how its done
    Know you can do it.

    God Speed, All Come back to the Barns Safely
    Love Ya, Peggy

  9. / Reply

    Have to go over to Keeneland to watch the babies selling.
    Happy Saturday to all . I hope its beautiful everywhere you all are today.
    It is just absolutely beautiful here in South Georgia today. Beautiful just a little wind sunny day. Has been all this past week just gorgeous weather. Wish it would stay like this all year around.

  12. / Reply

    Good luck Cappers! This was a tough one to pick for me. Since, I don’t pay much attention to the baby races but, I had to go with Archer Hill only because, Big Brown’s foals have been on fire lately. He’s been off to a very good start with his first runners this year. Not only here but, over the pond as well. I also have noticed that Curlin is off to a good start too with his first crop of racing age.

    So, was Camelot 2nd? Camelot, we’re proud of you! Keep up the good work.

    Paynter, you keep fighting the good fight, you brave horse. You’re still in my prayers.
    Potesta; I pray for a full recovery from surgery and may you live out the rest of your days in lush pastures.

    Zensters…. Have a wonderful weekend! Go Giants and Go 49ers!!!

  15. / Reply

    Ugh:

    Having trouble placing a bet don’t think I’m gonna make it!!!!!! So frustered! I’m gonna keep trying/////Good Luck to all!

    GirlSaratoga

  16. / Reply

    Dear Zentastic Cappers:

    That was a tough loss for me. Exacta Box Are You Kidding Me and Indiano Jones; 2nd and 3rd. Back to the drawing board next week. Hugs, JB

  17. / Reply

    dear max was very disappointed that camelot did’nt win the leger felt that young joesph gave him too much to do maybe it was the distance!we’ve still got frankel only for one more race so sad he is at newmarket for a race course gallop on sept 29th {should put 10,ooo more at the gate according to sir henry}are you going to the breeders cupmeeting this year?hugs sheena

    • / Reply

      Sheena. I am sorry for your disappointment about Camelot. Not his race. I am however very happy that Nijinsky’s record remains. He was a wonderful horse and he deserves to keep his legend. If you examine photos of Nijinsky, he and Frankel look like twins. Their characters seem to be alike. I read that when Nijinsky arrived at Ballydoyle from Canada, he refused to eat. Vincent O’Brien called Windfields to get the receipe of his favorite food which consisted of a special nut based mixture. By the time that they flew over the ingredients and got it together, Nijinsky had changed his mind and wanted only oats.
      Not certain yet about BC as I may go to England if Kauto races again.

      • / Reply

        Dear Max, Sheena and Z Fans:

        Don’t you just love these independent characters! Camelot gave it a good try. Just like our American Triple Crown; we’ll have to wait for next year. Love and Hugs, JB

        • JudyB. Make that another 40 years. Most of the time trainers do not even consider it. The distances are too far apart to find a horse who can race at that level from a mile to nearly two miles. Too tough. Also did you notice the hills on that course. Super tough.

        • Dear Max:

          Yes, it is tough. You’re right Max, TC’s in both countries could be a long time coming. Hugs, JB

        • JudyB. The odds still favor a US TC. At least many US trainers make the effort each year to plan for it. The US TC is difficult because it is so tightly scheduled. You need to find a young horse with a quick recovery ability who can run up to a mile and a half within that short period. Not easy. The English TC is spread out over 5 months. There distance is the main factor. No Euro bred horse has ever won the Kentucky Derby. The reigning English TC winner was North American bred and US owned. Yesterday’s St. Leger was won by a US bred horse. Something to think about when the question of the alleged superiority of Euros stamina wise arises.

        • Agree Max,

          The Euro Triple crown is much more taxing stamina
          Wise than US. Dirt is harder to run on and causes more
          Injuries so need more bone and soundness like
          Lonhro. Euro’s need stamina more and Camelot could not
          Make the distance.

          Great race.

  18. / Reply

    Sorry I’m a day late with this birthday poem and heart-felt best wishes for our dear Kimberly Potter!

    A Birthday Poem for Kimberly Potter
    (September 14, 2012)

    She’s Z’s number one fan
    In all of Montan’—
    She’s a mother, though no longer a wife,
    Who greets each new day
    In her big-hearted way
    With verve and lust
    And a great trust
    In the goodness of life.
    She works hard
    And plays harder
    With all her life’s ardor.
    As a legal assistant,
    She’s always persistent
    In dealing with that legal blotter–
    It’s not in her to be a rotter.
    While she’s working,
    She’s never shirking
    Though sometimes she’s wishing
    That she could be fishing!
    Yes, fishing is her favorite sport
    When she leaves behind
    Those matters of court.
    And though she loves her job,
    Her family’s her first heart throb.
    Remember when her little grandchild-to-be
    Was threatening to come way, way too early
    Into this world’s hurly-burly?
    Kimberly did her very best
    To help her daughter-in-law rest
    So baby would stay
    Within her mom’s girth
    Till the right day
    Should come for her birth.
    Thank goodness all went well,
    And in October
    Kimberly welcomed her new granddaughter,
    The darling Evyn Bell!
    This birthday Kimberly will be fishing with a fly
    ’Neath that marvelous big sky–
    Will she
    With family
    Have a fresh-caught fish fry?
    Will they round a roaring campfire lie
    And maybe sing “O, Susana”
    Up there in Montana?
    She’s not likely to repeat
    An earlier feat
    (A little offbeat!)
    Which she once did complete
    In her state’s famed Virginia City.
    If you know not with its history,
    It’s a gem of old Montana lore.
    As history books have imparted,
    Here’s how it all started:
    In 1863
    As I am told,
    While in the East the country engaged
    In Civil War
    And bloody battles raged,
    At Alder Gulch they struck gold!
    Up sprang Virginia City,
    Where life could be gritty
    But huge fortunes were made.
    In the brief years of its glory,
    ’Twas the capital of the territory.
    There you can yet today see
    The very best
    Of the Old West
    Still well-preserved.
    Kimberly to us imparted
    The following story
    Of how it her and her pals served
    As a watering spot
    On a day not to be forgot.
    On horseback they paraded
    First down the main street
    Of this ghost town,
    Highly rated,
    Source of much Montanan pride.
    They looked around,
    And then they (a little inebriated?)
    Did ride
    Right onto the boardwalk
    And, without missing a beat,
    They rode their steeds
    Into the Bale of Hay Saloon
    Where they wished to quench their thirst.
    I don’t know if that was a first,
    But it sure caused some talk!
    Then they very soon
    Were asked (more’s the pity!)
    To leave not just the saloon,
    But the city!
    This year at the BC
    We’ll meet our dear Kimberly,
    A stalwart in Equi-Army,
    And Carly, her like-minded daughter–
    We salute both
    For being devoted to ending horse slaughter!
    Now let’s again drink a toast
    To the Montanan
    Who loves Z the most—
    Yes, by that boast you’ll always spot her—
    Our dear Kimberly Potter!

    Happy birthday, Kimberly, and many, many happy returns!

  19. / Reply

    Ioweyoubigtime just ran BIG to win the KY
    Downs Turf, great tough son of Dynaformer.

    Wow what a stretch drive, he lead and took them
    On at the end and won!!!

  20. / Reply

    Z-Peeps:

    It’s been a long hard week lots of things went wrong! Was so happy come to the sight to see “our guy” Paynter doing so well.

    To those who had Birthday’s “Happy Birthday”! with many more!

    To All who provided such wonderful links, especially the Saratoga links, such wonderful warm memories, and sad ones knowing I have to wait another year to be back there again , hopefully with some of my new friends.

    Judy:
    So happy to hear about Papa Charlie, waiting for beautiful pics of “your guy”!

    Keta:
    Thanks for all your tweets, updates and links, you are AMAZING!!!!!

    Sign:
    I see our prince still has no name, whats up with that? haha!

    Carol:
    So very sorry to hear about your mom, you and your family are in my prayers

    Pati:
    Hope you are enjoying college, and I am happy you have time to check with us

    Terry:
    I miss you terribly, hope all is going well for you.

    Things are pretty rough here, so I will check back here from time to time for a laugh, a smile, or maybe just a good old cry! I need a miracle soon, as things are slowly falling apart and so am I. I have prayed for everyone, my family, my friends, and the horses I love so much, maybe it’s time I pray for myself.

    On a happier note, Congrats to our winners this week, it looks like we had quite a few! Nice capping!
    Wishing you all well as our summer comes to a close and we get ready for winter! (yuck!)

    With a heavy heart GirlSaratoga

    • / Reply

      I am not quite in college yet! Though it feels like it, I am a senior in high school still! I am beginning to send out applications next month. I am applying to Cazenovia in NY and Findlay in OH. Maybe one will accept me. :-/

      • / Reply

        Pati:

        So sorry I forgot you were a senior! I remembered your post about your hair! I am sure you are the star of your senior class! I hope you get accepted to the college you want most, the waiting is the toughest part, but it goes by fast.

        Disco for you prom sounds like a great time! Bring back those old dance songs and dance moves, you will all have so much fun!

        Again I’m sorry for the misprint

        GirlSaratoga

        • No problem at all. Even when I get in to college, I will always make time for my Z family.

    • / Reply

      GS – I’m so sorry that things in your life aren’t going well right now. We seem to have a lot of that going on among our Z peeps which is very sad. Sending good thoughts and prayers your way, and hope that tomorrow will be a brighter day.
      Sandy

    • / Reply

      Dearest GirlSaratoga, I am so sorry to read that things are so rough for you right now. My heart and my prayers go out to you. May the magical force of Zenyatta surround you and lift your spirits.

    • / Reply

      Dear GirlSaratoga:

      Sorry to hear things are rough for you right now. As Sandy has said, a few of us seem to be going through rough patches. Keep the faith Dear Heart. Things will get better.

      PC’s trainer insisted on racing him again. Talked with him today and Papa’s going in the 4th at Suffolk Downs on Monday. Praying he comes out of the race OK. Love and Hugs, JB

    • / Reply

      GS, I, too, am so sorry you are going through some hard times! Life is so darn tough sometimes and it never fails that these things happen all at once, or so it seems! Things will get better though you may not see the end right now and everything happens for a reason. You seem like a strong lady and you will get through this. You will be in my thoughts and prayers.

    • / Reply

      Dear GS,

      So glad to hear from you and really enjoy your reading posts. Tough times
      are difficult, but prayers, Zenny, RN jokes will definately make the
      days brighter.

      Thanks for all you contribute and mean to us.

    • / Reply

      Dear GS, I am very sorry that you are going through a trying time. You will be in my prayers specifically. The list always get longer with all the wonderful friends we make in Zenyatta land. Don’t ever hesitate to pray for yourself though, you have to take care of yourself in all ways.
      love and hugs,
      Maryp

  22. / Reply

    Bet ARE YOU KIDDING ME to show and he placed so won some money.
    Bet him as he is one of the Canadian horses that had been sucessful.

    This was a very hard race to bet, not much talk about it and not much information
    available on the horses.

    Great strategy Carol from Utah, Thanks for sharing.
    The Exacta’s are impossible for me and smaller money is better anyway.

    Thanks again Carol.

  25. / Reply

    Dear Max, Have you heard any recent news on Orfevre. I am wondering if he is still pointed toward the Arc in October.

    This afternoon also at Keeneland there was this beautiful yearling out of a Dynaformer Mare. Its so nice that we have so many of his offspring and well I’ll call them his grandkids. I was just hurriedly looking at it this afternoon, but this yearling was gorgeous. I have to go back in and look at this sale again.

  26. / Reply

    Dear Max

    Thank you so much for letting me know. This is so exciting. I wish him so much good luck. I wonder if we would be able to see this on any of our chanels tomorrow.
    Oh My Gosh and this is the first I have heard of Galikova, Half Sister to Goldikova. I just loved Goldikova. I saw her at the 20l0 Breeders Cup in person. That was such a Thrill. I saw her going through to be saddled. Such a Beauty. I was trying to controll my beting that day, but had to go back and bet on her and she won.
    I did do good though that day. I placed a bet on Zenyatta for myself and a girl that works with me when I first got there. But, I heard little chit chat there that day about Blame. And I don’t know I just said (He’s going to Win) I went and place a bet on him. OMG He won. I felt a little guilty because I love Zenyatta so much. But I think that was just sixth sense that day. Probably want ever happen again.

    Thanks again for letting me know.

    • / Reply

      Peggy. They may have a video of that race as it is an important one. I will keep an eye out for it. Also if there is anything more on Galikova, I will let you know.

    • / Reply

      Oh yes Peggy N,

      Galikova ran in the Arch last year as a 3 year old. Olivier Pellier (sp) rode her.
      They were expecting her to come close to winning. Will post the 2011 Arc
      for you to see her. She is a beauty.

    • / Reply

      In all of the discussion about Gadlikova, it was mentioned
      That it would be very unusual for a 3 year old to
      Win the Arc, but Freddy wanted to give her a chance.

  28. / Reply

    Dear Sign,

    Thank you so much for posting that race. She is a beauty. And she’s the daughter of Galileo. That was a great race. The first time I had seen it. Don’t know how I have missed hearing about her. I went in also on Goggle and saw another picture of her. I just can’t wait to see the Arc this year.

    • / Reply

      I watched the Arc for the first time and there was lots of
      Info on her as Goldikova was making her last appearance
      At the BC and Freddy Head was training Galdikova so
      He was doing a lot of comparisons of the two and
      Said Goldi ‘s sister was very talented.

  29. / Reply

    Sad that Are You Kidding Me didn’t get to be first yesterday, I was so looking forward to seeing him at Santa Anita, but he paid off for some of you. It’s hard not to put money on a Roger Attfield horse and Luis Contreras is having a good year.
    By my count, it’s now seven weeks to the event of the year!!!

    • / Reply

      Sad he did not win. Would love to have seen a
      Canadian Champion here. I bet on him because
      He was a proven Canadian horse in his races. Maybe
      They will supplement him to come.

  30. / Reply

    @Girl Saratoga–prayers and hugs coming your way from me. I understand. This entire year has been a battle for us personally on many fronts, and we have many friends who would say the same. Stay strong. This, too, shall pass. I agree with you that it’s easier sometimes to pray for others thqan for ourselves.

    @Trina– I’m out of words to describe the awe I feel at your poems.

    @TC,GP–We miss you terribly(although Vick B. is doing a great job as stand-in for you). Hope you are lurking and will be back soon. It’s not the same without you. Hugs.

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