WHEN ENOUGH IS ENOUGH

IT’S a hard call knowing when your horse is ready to be retired.

“All horses reach an age where they are no longer able to cope with the demands of a particular discipline, be that through individual injuries or a combination of reduced fitness,” says Matt Chesworth.

“You’ll get a feeling when your horse no longer enjoys work. He’ll likely be reluctant to go forward, struggle to maintain fitness and niggles become more evident with a reduction in performance. It could be that he drops down a few levels if he is still keen to be in work or is retired to gentle hacking. Each horse is an individual so discuss with your vet what is best for him.”

There will also ultimately be a time when veteran owners must make the tough decision to euthanise a horse. Again, speak to your vet about any concerns.