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:
1.
Observe
your horse on a regular basis.
Watch for changes in body condition, behavior and attitude. Address
problems, even seemingly minor ones, right away.
2.
Feed a high
quality diet. Avoid dusty and
moldy feeds.
3.
Feed your
older horse away from younger, more aggressive ones so it won't have to compete
for feed.
4.
Feed at
more frequent intervals so as not to upset the digestive system. Two-three
times daily is best.
5.
Provide
plenty of fresh, clean, tepid water.
Excessively cold water reduces consumption which can lead to colic and
other problems.
6.
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.
7.
Provide
adequate, appropriate exercise to maintain muscle tone, flexibility and
mobility.
8.
Groom your
horse frequently to promote circulation and skin health.
9.
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).
10.
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.
Back to Rectortown Equine Center Wellness Program.
Reprinted
with permission from the American Association of Equine Practitioners.