The Geriatric Horse

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The Geriatric Horse


Things to expect in an Aging Horse

Loss of top line, otherwise known as sway back

Graying of the hair coat Abnormal shedding patterns Musculoskeletal stiffness Less activity Heart Murmur


Tips for Caring for the Older Horse

Regular grooming and inspection aids in early detection of any skin conditions, tumors, and injuries.

Provide plenty of clean, luke warm water Regular exercise Schedule routine check-ups with your

Veterinarian


Annual Wellness Visits

Bi-annual visits Vaccinations Parasite Control Monitoring weight and body condition Early Detection Annual blood work


Spring Vaccinations

Spring Eastern/Western Encephalomyelitis West Nile Virus Tetanus Equine Influenza/Rhinopneumonitis Potomac Horse Fever Strangles


Fall Vaccines

Equine Influenza/Rhinopneumonitis Rabies Potomac Horse Fever


Deworming

Annual Fecal Egg Count Deworming

Class One (0-200) Class Two (200-500) Class Three ( >500)

Keep pastures clean Rotate pastures Prevent overgrazing


Weight Management

Weight taping Body Condition Score 1- poor

2- very thin 3- thin 4- moderately thin 5- moderate 6- moderate to fleshy 7- fleshy 8- fat 9- extremely fat


Nutrition

Require more Fiber, Protein, and Fat Grass hay-more digestible for older horse

Timothy, Brome, Orchard Alfalfa can be harder to digest Feed in more frequent intervals Senior feeds Beet pulp Top dresses Loose salt


Dentistry

Oral exams twice a year Importance of dental records Identifying loose or missing teeth Maintain the correct bite plan Higher risk for Periodontal Disease


Make your Farrier a partner in Care

Deteriorating hoof quality and joint stiffness can complicate his hoof care

Hoof can become more brittle Slowing hoof growth Invest in quality farrier care for your older

horses needs


Shelter and Environment

Adequate Shade Three-sided sheds for protection from

wind and precipitation Blanketing


Reducing Stress in the Older Horse

Older horses do not handle change as well as a younger horse would.

Feeding program Consistent exercise Familiar pasture mates Less travel


Diseases Associated with Aging

Arthritis Equine Metabolic Syndrome Pituitary Pars Intermedia Cataracts Heart Disease Heaves Colic Melanomas Strangulating lipomas Laminitis


Questions

The Geriatric Horse

Lifestyle

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