Essential Facts About Horse Retirement Farms

By Marla Mills


Some horse owners discover that they are not prepared to care for aging animals. Additionally, horses often live as long as 35 years. Horse retirement farms specialize in the care of such animals, and many individuals retire their elderly horses to such farms. In this way, the animal can enjoy peace and comfort for the remainder of its life.

Horses are considered retired when they are no longer trained, raced, ridden, or used for work. There is no universal retirement age for such animals. This timeframe will depend on various factors, such as the purpose the horse served, how well it was cared for during its active life, and its breed. However, there are some general signs that such an animal will display when it is reaching retirement age.

When it appears that the horse's vitality has decreased, the owner should consider this an indication that retiring the animal is appropriate. Even young horses require rest in between exercise sessions so that they do not sustain injuries or become exhausted. As horses age, however, they generally begin to need additional days off before they regain their previous energy. Individuals who noticed that their animals constantly need more and more rest prior to participating in their regularly scheduled activities should consider this a sign that the animal should be allowed to retire.

Most horses need a warm-up prior to participating in strenuous exercise. The usual amount of time necessary for a warm-up is 15 to 20 minutes, if the horse is healthy. If the animal requires a 45 minute warm-up or longer before it can engage in exercise or run, it should be retired.

Owners of such animals are wise to look for behavioral changes as well. If the animal has lost its enthusiasm for work, training, or other previously enjoyable activities, it may indicate that it is becoming fatigued. General lethargy and disinterest in activity are also indications that the animal needs to slow down.

Watching for signs of reduced endurance is another important task. Additionally, poor coordination and weakness are also signs that are displayed by aging horses that are ready for retirement. For example, if the horse stumbles or loses its balance when it is mounted, it should no longer be ridden. To continue to ride an animal that has exhibited such a pattern can cause injury to both the horse and the rider.

After deciding to retire an animal of this kind, selecting a farm with care is an essential task. It is wise to choose an establishment that has a good reputation in the local area. In addition, one should make every effort to choose a farm that has been in operation for substantial amount of time. Asking the farm's owner which veterinarian is used for animals that become sick or experience injuries is also wise.

Is a good idea to make in-person visits to any horse retirement farms one is considering. In this way, an individual can get a reasonable idea of how well the establishment is run. Ultimately, old horses can live healthier, happier lives as they age, if they are allowed to slow down and relax until the end of their life.




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