Horse Guidelines: Equine Flu and Arthritis in the Older Horses | Horses

By LethoMaseko
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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.

You can keep them outside in fresh air to try reducing the symptoms. If however your horse needs to be stalled, store your hay in a different location and make sure the airflow in the barn is good. Soak your hay before feeding if there is a dust problem.

Arthritis in the Older Horses

There are a variety of home remedies or treatments you can use for your senior horse companion if he is having a lot of pain and inflammation with his arthritis. And several of them can be done at the same time. The thing to remember is that your horse is an individual and may not take too kindly to some treatments, and be just fine with others. Treat them accordingly and go with the flow.

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.

Exercise should always start out slow and easy, a walk for 10 minutes, a slow trot, a walk, some turns and circles, some easy uphill work. When you first take him out, it will have to be for a shorter period of time to get him used to being out again. Over a period of time, based on his response, you can increase the duration of the exercises. Even if you walk and trot him by hand, he will enjoy the change of scenery.

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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