VETERAN HORSES l EXERCISE TIPS
What sort of work should older horses be doing? What are the benefits of regular exercise in his twilight years? Veterinary physiotherapist Sinead Anglin shares her top tips for keeping veterans fit, sound and healthy well into their 20s
OLDER HORSES STILL have plenty to offer when they reach their twilight years, but work sessions may need to be adapted as they enter this quieter phase of their lives. This is not to say, however, that training can’t still be useful and rewarding for rider and horse.
Owners should adapt their older horse’s management and training to suit his individual needs, while making sure that his quality of life is what he deserves. His workouts and exercises can be tailored accordingly; for example, when out hacking, instead of looking for places to canter, try to find different types of terrain to walk across, such as tarmac, grass, slopes and gravel. Riding a horse over these different terrains and surfaces will make him more surefooted, will improve his spatial awareness — also known as proprioception — and additionally will improve his neuromuscular and motor control, making it a productive excursion.
In the school, transitions can be made within walk to check the horse’s balance and reaction to the aids. Stretching is always important, too, both in the school and out on hacks. Try walking for 10 steps on an even contact, and then taking 10 steps with a left contact, 10 steps with an even contact and, finally, 10 steps with a right contact.
Ensure that the horse maintains his rhythm, balance and impulsion.
Pay attention and listen to the horse. If he begins to struggle, reduce the number of steps you ask for and repeat the exercise.
PROBLEM:
My veteran is in his early 20s and I don’t know how often I should be riding him.
I don’t know what the benefits are and how frequently I should be taking him out.
FIX IT:
If your veteran horse is happy, healthy, sound and willing, you can ride him throughout his 20s. However, if he begins to s
