Horse Guidelines: Equine Flu and Arthritis in the Older Horses
Letho Maseko
With Equine Flu know to others as ARD, it seems the most common cause of ARD is several types of mould spores and weeds in hay or straw. This is a seasonal thing, so you may only see the problem popping up in the spring and the summer. Problem is, winter and fall feed come from the same source, so what happens is the horse builds up sensitivity over time and their reactions increase.
When you want to get the best treatment for ARD, figuring out what the problem is in the first place is half the battle and once you have that under control, your horse is well on his way to making a good recovery.
Arthritis and the Older Horse
Older horses are usually attacked by arthritis, and while it can slow them down, there are exercises to help him regain his condition. Take him out of retirement and give him regular exercise - not the rodeo style kind, but gentle, tailored to his condition style exercises. The muscles around his joints will benefit by being strengthened and help protect the joints from stress. It's a known fact a conditioned horse usually has significantly thicker and healthier cartilage than an unfit equine and the major reasons to take him out of retirement and give him some pep? Regular exercise works wonders for his attitude, appetite, digestion and general well being. He's been your companion for so long, he deserves the best.
Most people choose to have a rejuvenation program. But before you start your rejuvenation program, have your hose Vet checked and talk to your farrier. This will give you and idea of any limitations you may need to work with. Proper trimming and shoes are extremely important when starting the older horse on an exercise routine. Preventive shoeing and trimming helps minimize concussive shock, aids flexion and extension, and alleviates lameness/ unevenness of gait.
Since he'll just get as stiff as all get out if left standing in a stall, take him out twice a day and hand walk him. Remove his bandage first then walk for about 15 minutes to get limber. When you take him back to his stall or pen, rewrap the bandage. Every day gradually increase his exercise. You will need to do this about four times a day as he progresses and then also reduce the length of time he is to be confined to about half the original period of time.
If there is no swelling an hour after the exercise session(s) you should be able to turn your senior back out into this regular pasture and then slowly get back into an easy exercise program. If however there is swelling, you will need to call your Veterinarian to re-evaluate the situation.
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