Learn about common senior horse health concerns and what you need to know

Horses are living longer and enjoying a high quality of life as they age. Gone are the days when a 15-year-old horse was old! Now horses are living into their 20’s and 30’s.

This is fantastic – but what does this mean for you and your horse? How do you care for a horse in their 30’s? What does a 20-year-old horse need? How can you be proactive and help prevent any age-related issues from becoming serious conditions for your horse?

In this blog we drill down into how to care for your senior horse:

• 6 common senior horse health concerns
• Strategies for senior horse care
• 6 things you need to know about senior horse care

As always, please do not hesitate to contact your veterinarian with any questions about your horse’s health. Do not make any changes to your horse’s nutrition, exercise, or routine without discussing this with your veterinarian. This is especially important for senior horses.

You love your horse and want the very best for them. Along with paying attention to their hoof and coat health, staying on top of their nutrition and hydration, you also need to be ready for any surprise injuries, accidents, and wounds.

Having a horse first aid kit and understanding the basics of horse health is the best first step in ensuring your horse remains in good health.

Please remember that a horse first aid kit is not a replacement for professional veterinarian care and advice. Always contact your veterinarian whenever your horse is ill or injured. A horse first aid kit is helpful in providing immediate care and treatment for injuries and wounds – but please ensure you follow-up with your veterinarian.

Know the real facts on how to care for your horse in the winter

To blanket or not to blanket? How do horses feel the cold? Do horses need more water in the winter? Horses don’t need as much food in the winter – yes or no?

These are just some of the winter horse care questions we get asked. We get it, there is a lot of confusion and misinformation out there about how to care for your horse in the winter.

In this blog, we do our best to bust 9 of the most common winter horse care myths. Keep reading to learn the facts and truth on what your horse really needs in the winter.

As always, please consult your veterinarian about any new behaviors, symptoms, or changes in your horse.

Make sure you know these 9 signs of a healthy horse

If your horse could speak, what do you think they would tell you? We think your horse would tell you how much they enjoy the fresh air, what they like to eat, and how to stay on top of their health needs.

Unfortunately, your horse cannot talk. But your horse does give you signals that communicate how they’re feeling physically and emotionally. A healthy appetite, regular water consumption, energy to ride and train, and a smile on their face are just a few ways your horse tells you how they’re feeling.

In this blog, I highlight 9 signs of a healthy horse that you need to know.

Please contact your veterinarian if your horse is not eating, is not interested in exercising, or shows other unexpected behavior. And do not make any changes to your horse’s exercise or feed routine without contacting your trainer, farrier, and veterinarian.

Know the signs of tooth discomfort and common horse dental problems

Just as important as their hooves, joint and coat health, your horse’s teeth require regular care and maintenance. The health of your horse’s teeth and gums tell you a lot about their overall health and wellness.

In this blog we provide facts and information many people do not know about horse teeth. As always, please consult your veterinarian with any questions about your horse’s teeth.

Like so many aspects of horse care, horse teeth require periodic maintenance to ensure your horse lives their healthiest life. Keep in mind these 3 reasons for monitoring your horse’s teeth:

1. Healthy teeth mean it’s easier to eat and absorb essential vitamins, minerals, and nutrients.
2. Healthy teeth mean your horse is not in hidden discomfort. (Remember your horse is adept at hiding discomfort.)
3. Healthy teeth mean your horse can get enough calories to maintain their weight and fuel themselves for training, competition, and daily life.

Head shaking, rearing, fighting the bit, and acting out can be signs of sore teeth and gums. Pay attention to any changes in your horse’s behavior and when in doubt, contact your veterinarian for a full exam and dental check-up.

Make sure you know these 5 facts about horse teeth and horse dental care.