Research projects

Research group FaunaFysio’s ongoing research projects

Physiological impact of agility on dogs

Heli Hyytiäinen

The study investigates the effect of different agility courses on dogs' lactate and heart rate. The research is part of a project funded by the Academy of Finland.

New screening method for hip dysplasia

Heli Hyytiäinen

The research aims to find a new, practical method that could easily and reliably identify symptoms of hip dysplasia in young dogs. The research is funded by the Academy of Finland.

Physiotherapy in treatment of foals and dogs respiratory diseases

Heini Rossi, Heli Hyytiäinen

Research explores the clinical impact of respiratory physiotherapy on foals and dogs with pneumonia. This is a very scarcely studied topic in animals, although it is widely and routinely used treatment method in humans with respiratory diseases. In addition, the benefit of physiotherapy in chronically ill respiratory disease patient dogs is studied. The aim is to further develop and improve the rehabilitation and treatment of respiratory patients. The research project is funded by the Research Council of Finland.

Foal’s motor development

Nina Hakonen

The study will determine the development of locomotion in newborn foals, investigate possible developmental delays in sick foals, and examine how their locomotion development differs from that of healthy foals. The information will help to better support the rehabilitation and development of sick foals.

Luxation of Shet­land Sheepdogs’ superficial digital tendon

Karoliina Mikola

The purpose of the study is to determine the prevalence of the disease among Finnish Shetland Sheepdogs and the predisposing factors, both in terms of foot structure and the type of connective tissue in the tendon attachment structures. Determining the predisposing factors will help both in preventing problems and in determining the best possible treatment for these dogs.

Dachshunds’ pes varus -growth disorder’s classification, prevalence and impact to welfare

Kami Turunen

The study aims to determine the prevalence of pes varus in the Finnish dachshund population, the manifestation of the condition and its effects on the well-being of the dogs through a questionnaire survey for owners and biomechanical, orthopedic, radiological imaging examinations of the dogs. In addition, the aim is to develop a new reliable screening method for pes varus based on these findings.

Foals’ kognitive development

Annica Hirvi

The study defines the normal cognitive development of healthy foals, and examines possible deviations in the corresponding development of sick foals. The information obtained from the study helps to understand the development and behavior of foals, and to consider the possible effects of the disease on the foals' cognitive abilities.