Stem cell technology is being applied not only to humans but to animals as well. Animals that profit from the benefits of this technology include horses with old or chronic ligament or tendon injuries, and fractures. Cartilage damage and degenerative joint disease are under study. Tests are made on a horse to determine if it is a good candidate. Ultrasounds, x-rays, nerve blocks and similar tests are used to get a proper diagnosis.

Fat contains a high concentration of easily processed adult stem cells. Fat-derived stem cells are easily accessed and harvested. It is usually taken from a fatty area of the injured horse’s tail head. Stem cells are isolated, concentrated and put in a syringe. It is then injected directly into the injury site. Stem cell enhancers for horses are also being used for health maintenance.