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The older horse Trainer Tips
by sheryl lynde | horsetrader columnist I
pointed out the human tendency to shy away from situations of uncertain out- comes. In his book “Think like a Rocket
Scientist,” author Ozan Varol states “our obsession with uncertainty leads us astray; all progress takes place in uncertain condi- tions.”
When we place the horse in unfamiliar
situations, holes in their training are uncov- ered. We are able to focus our efforts on their areas of weaknesses. Similarly, human character flaws are also revealed when the heat is on. It is when we are tested that opportunities present themselves to get bet- ter, be beter, go deeper. Conversely, there is a process that offers a
definite, guaranteed outcome, but we spend vast amounts of money each year to fight this process, to deny and conceal it — every- thing but accept it. However, we can’t escape the inescapable. It’s called age. Meaningful work is a crucial ingredient
to the pursuit of fulfillment at any age. Our bodies may slow down, but our minds still yearn for engagement. The parallel is easily recognized in our equine partners as well. My gelding, now 25, has been my compan- ion since he was four. He has been instru- mental in my career, giving demonstrations, helping me start difficult colts and problem horses. Each time I would enter his pas- ture to halter him, I’d say “I need your help, buddy.” And when we completed our job for the day, as I turned him loose, I let him know I couldn’t have done it without him. Joe hasn’t taken a lame step in his life.
This year I started my last colt. Again, his even temperament was like a balm to this youngster, and Joe was of great service seting the tone for this colt and hundreds of others before him. When the colt leſt, I noticed a huge change in Joe within a short
Sheryl Lynde gives her view on problem-solving and more
Horsetrader columnist Sheryl Lynde is a John Lyons Certified Trainer who specializes in foundation training, colt- starting and problem-solving.
month or two. He started to favor a knee and he began to hobble around in his pen. His eye changed. He began to look his age. He has had consistent exercise all of his
life, and within just a couple of months of limited activity, even though he is in a larger pen with two other geldings, I noticed a dif- ference in his overall well being.
Our bodies may slow down, but our minds still yearn for engagement. The parallel is easily recognized in our equine partners as well. Aſter consulting with my vet, Dr. Wayne
McNeel regarding Joe’s knee, he directed me to the appropriate medication that would make him more comfortable, and it did. That was addressing his physical needs; now, for his mind. Wayne shared with me a study that was
performed by Penn State. They took two groups of horses, one group they gave joint supplements and the other group they regularly exercised over a period of time. Then they switched groups. In both cases, the group that received regular exercise improved and moved more fluidly than the group on the supplements. Regular exercise is key to their well-being. It can even be said that it reduces the risk of colic, especially
if they are in a smaller stall. An effective workout regime for Joe with limited signs of lameness would be 30 minutes at a walk or trot, five days a week, avoiding hills. I also have a horse with navicular. His condition is closely managed, but there are times when he does favor his affected foot. As suggested by Wayne, I saddle up both Joe and my other gelding. I ride Joe and pony the other for 30 minutes, and then I switch for the ride back. Wayne has clients that give regular les- sons on their older horses who are in their 30s. The key is consistent exercise that is a match for their age and physical ability. It also works their mind; they still need mental stimulation. For the horse that has suffered a more
debilitating injury or illness that prevents activity, just making them as comfortable as possible is key. Make sure they aren’t in a pasture situation where they get picked on and can’t protect themselves. When you find them lying down more oſten, not wanting to stand or off their feed, you may have a diffi- cult but kind decision to make. If you can’t provide the care for your older
horse, take the time to find the appropriate home. Rescues are not always the answer. They need to be thoroughly veted — go out and physically pay a call to the facility. Some are hoarders and most are full and all are in need of donations. One could provide a good home with proper care, but do your home- work and contribute if possible. Some owners provide for their horses
by designating funds for their care in their wills. This gives them tremendous peace of mind, preparing as best they can for the inevitable. Couldn’t we all use a litle peace of mind?
–Sheryl
This archived article first appeared in the Jan. 1, 2021 issue of California Horsetrader and ranks on “
news.horsetrader.com” as a favorite. You can find other Trainer Tips columns by Sheryl Lynde by going to “
news.horsetrader.com” and searching for “Trainer Tips!”
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