2012م - 1444هـ




reface



There was a time, not too long ago, that it seemed

that a 16-year-old horse was past its prime and

horses over 20 years old were “old horses” rarely being

treated with anything more than deworming medications

and vaccinations.Almost all were on a short list to

euthanasia, or relegated to renderers, pet food, or the

human food supply abroad. Well clearly that has

changed. In polling audiences, this author and editor has

found that the majority of veterinarians (with a few

years experience) are convinced they manage many

more old horses now than they did in the 1980s or

before. Society seems far less comfortable with euthanasia

of healthy horses, even if they happen to have some

years on them.This trend is clearly evident in the publication

of the American Association of Equine

Practitioners’, Care Guidelines for Equine Rescue and

Retirement Facilities, 2004. Search the web and in

excess of 30 retirement homes for horses are available.

That is supply trying to meet demand.

Horse owners and trainers have discovered, many of

them a long time ago, that the older horses get, the

greater value these individuals can have outside the

show ring, or as active campaigners, or as child care

givers.They bring comfort to many owners that just like

to know that the pasture isn’t empty and that an old

friend is putting the space to good use.

Geriatric medicine and surgery is not glamorous

work.The Geritol Derby and the Barren Mare’s Cup are

having trouble finding sponsorship.However,many veterinarians

know that working with older horses and the

clients who care for them can be very satisfying.These

horses may not be campaigners or trophy winners, but

often they are part of a family.They may be a tradition in

the barn like old boots or a comfortable old saddle.They

may be a child’s (or an adult’s) best friend, a challenged

individual’s best chance for therapy, or a troubled youth’s

best shot at rehabilitation. Let’s continue to service these

horses and owners in the best way we can. Both are a

little different from what we normally do. Both need

some special care.