MAKE WINTER EASIER FOR YOUR OLD HORSE

The season ahead may be hard on aging horses in cold climates but with some planning and preparation you can help yours sail through until spring.

- Melinda Freckleton, DVM, with Christine Barakat

A brisk nip in the morning air, trees losing the last of their leaves, flocks of noisy geese flying south---these signs of an approaching winter can stir up a range of emotions for those who have a beloved older horse in the barn. The changing of the seasons is a reminder of the passage of time and the precious few years that may be left for an old horse. Add in unease over the practical challenges that winter may hold and wistfulness gives way to worry. But it doesn’t have to.

Older horses don’t necessarily have more trouble keeping warm than do their younger herdmates during the winter, but if they do get chilled the consequences can be more significant.

Most of the factors that make the winter months difficult for older horses can be mitigated with a bit of forethought and preparation. When you anticipate challenges, you can either work to eliminate them or, if that’s not possible, provide the support your horse needs to overcome them. Of course, problems that you didn’t anticipate can, and will, arise---that’s just the nature of horse ownership. But with some prep work, you can be ready to provide the help your horse needs. Here’s a basic framework for planning ahead, as well guidance on how you can help your horse cope with winter-related challenges.

THE BENEFIT OF FALL WELLNESS EXAMS

One of the best ways to identify and mitigate potential health problems in your older horse this winter is with a full physical exam.