Q: The vet was just out to look at my 20-year-old horse, who’s become difficult to bridle, picks at his food, and won’t even take carrots from my hand anymore. I kinda figured it was a mouth problem, but...
I've been thinking a lot lately about the role I play in my horse's life. I've been his only rider for more than a decade and his sole caretaker since I switched to self-care board seven years ago. He's...
By Henrietta Coole, Equine GuelphWith winter around the corner, now is the time for a dental check-up and nutritional status assessment, especially for older horses. Compared to spring and summer, horses burn significantly more calories through fall and winter...
Cushing’s disease is a complex and yet relatively common condition in horses. While it does require medical intervention, this disease is not a death sentence, and horses with Cushing’s disease can continue leading a happy, productive life long after...
Senior horses really are the champions of their species. These are the mounts that are the bombproof schoolmasters helping shape riders into becoming true equestrians, and the gentle old souls who have kindled the flame of many lifelong lovers...
Q: What are some signs that your horse needs to retire? What type of lifestyle can you create for a retired horse if you don't have grass pastures?A: Good for you for recognizing that equine retirement isn’t about an...
In Oakland, Oregon, the 1,120 acre Duchess Sanctuary is home to 196 horses and donkeys rescued from public lands, slaughter, the pharmaceutical industry, and other horrific situations.Forty-five of the Sanctuary residents are over the age of 20, making them...
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Winter is frequently considered the hardest season for senior horses to weather. With its harsh temperatures and icy precipitation, horses that already struggle with metabolic issues, adequate caloric intake, and mobility can emerge in the spring somewhat worse for...
"These horses owe us nothing,” says Nancy Turner, founder and president of This Old Horse, a rescue and sanctuary for unwanted and retired horses. "The mission here is to honor these horses for the work they have done,” she...
There’s no doubt that horses learn a lot from humans. But there are also times when horses clearly learn from each other. Younger horses, in particular, are full of spunk, but older horses are usually around to keep them...
