Keeping Golden Oldies in Good Condition.

Our much loved Louis is turning 29 this year. Alex has owned him since 1997 and in that time he has turned his hoof to many things. From affiliated eventing, endurance races and showing, to completing the relay at Cheshire County Show and now helping our clients to experience the fun of riding, Louis has proven a talented and reliable partner in every equestrian field!

As he ages it’s important that we keep him in the best condition possible and adjust his management and work according to need. So what specific challenges do we face in caring for an older horse? 

Horses are trickle feeders who graze constantly, needing to eat around 2% of their body weight per day in high fibre foods like grass and hay. Louis gets adlib haylage and as much time in the field as possible. As horses age maintaining their teeth is of vital importance. Horses wear their teeth down over time and older horses can struggle to chew their food and get the nutrition they need. We have adapted Louis diet to account for this by providing several well soaked feeds a day. Including mashes dubbed ‘Horse Soup’ by some visiting children! He has specially formulated senior mixes and balancers that contain the right blend of vitamins, minerals and proteins needed to keep him in good health. Louis also is regularly visited by a horse dentist who ensures his teeth are kept in tip top condition.  

We also need to consider exercise; light work a few days a week of the sort Louis gets in sessions keep him moving and using his body helping to maintain flexibility and muscle tone, as well as ensuring he is entertained and mentally stimulated. His activity levels have been adjusted and we include a variety of tasks like in-hand work, pole work and carrot stretches. Louis also has regular visits from equine vets and physiotherapists to check his condition and make sure he is comfortable. They all report he is doing really well and is very happy in his work and quieter pace of life.  

Let us know if you’d like more information on how we care for the horses.  

Keep an eye out on our social media accounts for Louis upcoming birthday celebrations!