Senior-Horse Travel

Your senior horse is an old friend that requires special care. The aging process affects all horses, but especially those that travel. Joints aren’t what they used to be. Balance is compromised. And your older horse is at risk for travel-related colic and respiratory problems. Here are seven ways to help keep your older equine partner healthy and happy while on the road.

1. Update your first-aid kit. Make sure your on-the-road first-aid kit is well-supplied and up-to-date. Update your older horse’s veterinary records.

2. Apply leg protection. In the trailer, your senior citizen is a risk for a leg injury, due to increasing lack of balance and stability. To protect his legs, apply shipping boots before every trip, no matter how short. Avoid wrapping his legs with polo wraps, as a too-tight wrap can compromise his circulation and weaken his tendons.

3. Support his respiration. In the trailer, your older horse may inhale dust, debris, and hay parti- cles, which can lead to respiratory problems. Tie him loosely enough so that he can drop his head to clear his air passages, but not so loose that he could catch a hoof in the lead rope. Ventilate your trailer, even in cool temperatures. Invest in window screens to keep out road debris.

4. Provide feed. On the road, keep your older horse on his normal feeding schedule. An interrupted schedule puts him at risk for colic. Ask your veterinarian about a formulated senior feed that meets his nutritional needs.

5. Provide water. Dehydration also puts your traveling senior at risk for colic. It can also lead to muscle tremors and weakness, due to a loss of potassium and other electrolytes.

6. Drive carefully. Your older horse can’t brace himself and balance as well as a younger horse can. Double the space between you and the vehicle in front of you, so you can stop slowly and gently. Turn slowly and with care. Watch for potholes and speed bumps.

7. Take breaks. On long hauls, stop

Usridermembertip

Your senior horse is an old friend that requires special care. The aging process affects all horses, but especially those that travel.

every two to three hours to let your older horse rest his joints and drink water. If you’re in a quiet, safe spot, unload him, and allow him also to stretch his muscles. This will increase his comfort and lessen his stiffness when you arrive at your destination.

— Lindsey Mulvany

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