Glossary
Gait
The pattern of movement of animals during (terrestrial) locomotion.
Gaits used by cats and dogs include the walk, the amble, the pace, the trot, the canter and the gallop.
Gaits used by cats and dogs include the walk, the amble, the pace, the trot, the canter and the gallop.
Asymmetrical (gait)
A pattern of gait in which footfalls are unevenly spread in time.
The footfall pattern to the left of the central line of a trail does not mirror the pattern to the right, and vice versa.
The footfall pattern to the left of the central line of a trail does not mirror the pattern to the right, and vice versa.
Footfall
Footsteps, the setting down of a foot.
The pattern of footfall constitutes the gait.
The pattern of footfall constitutes the gait.
Central Line
An imaginary line along the direction of travel.
Gallop
The fastest gait of an animal, in which all four feet are off the ground during the stride.
Single Suspension Gallop
An asymmetrical, four-beat gait, in which there is just one suspension phase, which occurs when all four limbs are airborne, gathered under the body.
All four limbs contact the ground separately, none in unison.
All four limbs contact the ground separately, none in unison.
Ipsilateral
Relating to the same side of the body.
For example, ipsilateral limbs are limbs that are on the same side of the body.
For example, ipsilateral limbs are limbs that are on the same side of the body.
Contralateral
Relating to the opposite side of the body.
For example, diagonally contralateral limbs are limbs on diagonally opposite sides of the body.
For example, diagonally contralateral limbs are limbs on diagonally opposite sides of the body.
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Symmetrical (Gait)
A gait in which footfalls are evenly spread in time.
The footfall pattern to the left of the central line of a trail mirrors the pattern to the right, and vice versa.
Slower gaits (walk, pace, trot) are symmetrical.
Cf. asymmetrical gaits
