Equine and canine athletic injuries occur as a result of (1) lack of fitness, (2) poor conformation (3) poor equipment (4) poor technique (5) accident
For the equine athlete there is an addition of the rider, the rider's weight, the riders ability and fitness.
Animals first try to avoid and then evade pain, and in doing so will form bad habits which are difficult to break.
incorrect bitting, badly fitting saddles, and over tight boots or bandages are all contributory factors in eventual injury.