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10 Tips for Caring for the Older Horse
Because of advances in nutrition, management and health care, horses
are living longer, more useful lives. It’s not uncommon to
find horses and ponies living well into their 20s and 30s. While
genetics play a role in determining life span, you too, can have
an impact.
You may think that turning your old-timer out to pasture is the
kindest form of retirement. But horses are individuals. Some enjoy
being idle; others prefer
to be a part of the action. Whatever you do, don’t ignore the horse.
Proper nutrition, care and exercise will help the animal thrive.
Follow these
guidelines to develop a total management plan for your older horse:
- Observe
your horse on a regular basis. Watch for changes in body condition,
behavior and attitude. Address problems, even seemingly minor ones,
right away.
- Feed
a high quality diet. Avoid dusty and moldy feeds.
- Feed
your older horse away from younger, more aggressive ones so it
won’t
have
to compete for feed.
- Feed
at more frequent intervals so as not to upset the digestive system.
Two-three times daily is best.
- Provide
plenty of fresh, clean, tepid water. Excessively cold water reduces
consumption which can
lead to colic and other
problems.
- Adjust
and balance rations to maintain proper body conditions. A good
rule of thumb is to be
able to feel the ribs but not see them.
- Provide
adequate, appropriate exercise to maintain muscle tone, flexibility
and mobility.
- Groom
your horse frequently to promote circulation and skin health.
- Be
aware that older horses are prone to tumors. Look for any unusual
lumps or growths from head to
tail as
well as
beneath the tail (especially on gray
horses).
- Schedule
routine checkups with your equine veterinarian. Call immediately
if you suspect a problem.
A quick response to ailments, injuries or a decline in fitness can
keep your older horse from having a serious or prolonged setback.
That means less worry for you and a better quality of life for your
old friend.
For more
information about caring for the older horse, ask your equine veterinarian
for the “Older Horse” brochure,
provided by the American Association of Equine Practitioners in partnership
with Educational Partners Bayer Animal Health and Purina Mills, Inc.
Visit the AAEP’s horse health web site, www.myHorseMatters.com,
for additional information about caring for the older horse.
Reprinted with permission from the American Association of Equine
Practitioners.
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