Elderly Horses

I have an elderly horse. He is around 23/24 years old and is an ID/TB. He looks amazing. Each year when the vet gives him the once over, he is amazed at his good condition. The only way you would have any idea of his real age is to open his mouth and look at his long crooked teeth, two of which long since departed at the front :-)

Three years ago, in August, I bought him in to wait for the farrier. It had been a rainy night, and I suddenly became aware that he was shivering and shaking. I had to dash down to the house to fetch him a few rugs. It was quite a shock. I watched him carefully after that.

Since that time, in mid August I start watching the weather in the evening. If I suspect that it may get cooler, or rain heavily, I pop a very light rug on him. He is happier, and in the morning I take it off. It's a right pain, but he comes into winter feeling well and in good bodily condition.

Having horses at home does give one a greater insight into their needs and requirements, simply because you see them more often so can better study their behaviour. If you only visit your horse in the evening, you may not be aware of how cold he is during the night.

I know certain avenues of 'natural horsemanship' say that a horse 'should not' wear a rug, and that he will build up the defences if you leave him. But we all know our own horses. Jack has been with me for almost seventeen years, and historically had his winter rug on in late October. Last year I took rugs off my native ponies. One trashes them, and the other decided it looked fun. I felt guilty at first but was surprised to find that they felt warmer and seemed happier.

My point is this:-
1. Watch your horse carefully for signs of losing condition. He may be warm during the day, but shivering at night.
2. No matter what your belief system is, our horses are individuals. What works for one, does not work for another. Don't subscribe to something just because your friend - or peer group- is doing or not doing something.
3. Do not allow others to make you 'feel bad' if they see you putting a rug on your horse during the summer. You know what it right for your horse, and it is your right to do what you feel is best

What I have learned from my horses is to be an individual myself. They have taught me to stand up for myself, and for them. In my opinion, this is a matter of mutual respect. Trusting in what he wants will help to develop the bond.