New courses for racehorses! by Edele Grey BSc (Hons), MVB (Hons), Cert ESM (Hons), MRCVS Our veterinary surgeon Edele helps to highlight some of the challenges ex-racehorses may face aſter life on the track.
With so many ex-racehorses being rehabilitated and retrained to go out competing, it’s important that owners understand
how their horse’s previous career may affect their current one. Edele discusses some of the common injuries and conditions that ex-racehorses may experience, along with tips on how owners can support their ex-racehorse on a daily basis.
A
large majority of re-trained racehorses are those that were too slow to race competitively; they haven’t all suffered from an injury. However, the new owner may not receive a full
health history of the horse so it is worth learning about some common conditions that may affect them. I may be a little biased as I do own two ex-racehorses, but in my experience, most retired racehorses go on to live fulfilling and happy lives with their new owners.
When a client explains that they are rehoming an ex-racehorse, as a vet I like to know whether the horse raced on the flat or National Hunt circuit as this will influence the type of injuries/conditions that may occur. I also advise that the horse gets checked over to assess their teeth, musculature, movement and is thoroughly examined for any old injuries before retraining begins. It is usual for horses to have lumps and bumps following a racing career but checking these early will mean both horse and owner can start on a clean slate, pain-free and slowly get to know each other.
Tendon and Ligament Injuries
not always a sign of back pain. An early examination before retraining can help to confirm what habits are pain evasion versus habits that are an idiosyncrasy of the horse. Treating back pain following diagnosis may involve groundwork and schooling to build muscle and strength; more extensive cases may need investigation, potentially resulting in medication or surgery.
Fractures
The most common fracture sites in racehorses are the carpus (knee), fetlock and pastern areas. The damage sustained by associated joints results in the horse being prone to arthritis in that area. Your veterinarian may advise that X-rays be taken to assess the extent of bony damage involving the joint before embarking on re-training as this may impact the horse's ability. The good news is that arthritis is manageable and activity is good for helping to mobilise the affected joints and reduce pain. Always discuss your own horse with your vet.
A less common fracture that owners consider are pelvic fractures, which happen more oſten in National Hunt horses who have fallen at a fence. The majority of falls cause some bruising/jarring of joints but when the horse re-joins the race (albeit minus the jockey) more severe injuries can occur. Location and severity of the fracture will impact the horse’s future ridden career, however most will recover and lead an active life. If you plan on retraining for dressage, pelvic fractures that have healed with muscular asymmetry may interfere with the horse’s ability to perform certain movements. Extra physio- therapy and training may be required to develop their weaker side.
Gastric Disease
Racehorses tend to suffer tendon and ligament injuries most commonly in the forelimbs. The vast majority of these injuries will need an extended period of rest followed by a rehabilitation programme before the horse can transition into their new discipline(s). Sites of previous injuries can be an area of weakeness and may need extra attention to monitor for re-injury. A vet can use an ultrasound scanner to visualise the majority of tendons/ ligaments if you’d like them to check for any obvious injury.
Back Pain
Back pain tends to be seen early in the re-training period. Signs can include your horse hollowing their back, bucking, rearing, unwilling to move forward or resenting being tacked up. It's important to remember that most ex-racers will be used to being mounted “on-the-move” and will need some training to be taught to stand quietly at a mounting block; moving off from the mounting block is
20 THE SPRING SPECIAL
Many new owners of ex-racehorses experience symptoms related to gastric disease, commonly known as gastric ulcers. Although any horse can suffer from the condition, many Thoroughbreds are diagnosed due to the high stress environment of their racing career. Signs to look out for are weight loss, loss of condition, a dull coat, colic signs aſter a meal or being sensitive around the girth area. Keep in mind that if your horse has just stopped racing they will be lean but should have a healthy, shiny coat. Racehorses can lose significant amounts of muscle when not in training and simply feeding increased amounts of hard feed won't necessarily help maintain muscle. Feeding a high fibre, forage-based diet will help manage gastric disease but only a gastroscope will diagnose the condition, allowing the correct treatment to be given. For feeding advice contact your chosen nutritional advisor.
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