[Gait analysis in dogs. 2: Installation of a gait analysis laboratory and locomotion studies].

Abstract

Following a review of the literature on dynamometric and kinemetric measurement systems in tetrapods (part 1, 19), the selection criteria and construction of a gait analysis laboratory for small animals at the Department of Veterinary Surgery of the Ludwig-Maximilians-University of Munich is described. The system consists of three units: a treadmill with integrated forceplates, a 3D-video motion analysis system, and dedicated computer and system software. The value of the equipment is demonstrated by means of results of clinical gait examinations (part 2). An advantage of the Munich system is that measurements of all four limbs on the treadmill can be repeated continuously and simultaneously.