Age is not a disease. We all get older and our bodies show signs of wear and tear. Some of us age faster than others, while others stay fit a little longer. Our horses are similar. From a certain age onwards, the signs can become increasingly noticeable. But this is no reason for us horse owners to get nervous. With keen observation skills and a little support, our beloved animals can grow old in good health.
Aging is a gradual process. We usually notice small changes that indicate that our horse is not quite what it used to be. For example, after a good gallop, we may suddenly notice that our horse is sweating much more than usual, panting or really exhausted.
Or we notice that our horse needs longer to "warm up" and no longer trots as smoothly as before. Its muscles may also be weaker. Typical external characteristics include larger eye sockets, a slightly sagging back, and a longer lower lip.
As the liver also works less efficiently than in youth, the metabolism slows down. The coat change, for example, may be delayed. Hoof growth may slow down accordingly, as may wound healing after injuries.
Diseases such as osteoarthritis or cardiovascular problems are definitely signs of aging, but this does not mean that you cannot continue to ride your horse or exercise it in a targeted manner. The most important thing is to keep a close eye on your horse and recognize any changes early on. Seek regular professional advice by having your veterinarian carry out appropriate preventive examinations. It is also advisable to keep your horse supple with good preventive care, such as regular physiotherapy or osteopathic treatment. Supplementary feed, oils, or feed supplements can also strengthen your horse at this stage.
You should pay attention to the following:
Take your horse to the vet regularly and have blood tests or further examinations carried out if necessary.
Older horses in particular should not be deprived of regular exercise. They need training to support their circulation and metabolism. Of course, this is not about competitive sport; gentle walks, rides, or light training sessions are all beneficial.
Unfortunately, older horses are more sensitive to changes in weather and temperature. As an owner, you can help by providing the appropriate equipment. Even if your horse never needed a blanket before, a rain, winter, or transitional blanket can be very helpful in old age.
Brushing, grooming, and massaging promote blood circulation and are sure to make your horse feel good.
When riding, you should observe closely how much weight the animal can still carry and for how long. Are the back muscles still working properly? Or would it make more sense to spend your time together doing ground work or lunging? As you can see, the most important thing when dealing with older horses is to be attentive and sensitive. After all, you know your horse best, having spent many years with it.
Let your horse show you what it still enjoys and what is no longer possible. Every horse has the chance to grow old healthily, and with loving care and careful exercise, you are doing everything right.
Cats are among the most popular pets, with around 14.7 million living in German households alone and a total of approximately 46 million across Europe. Only about half of them are vaccinated and neutered, and therefore well protected against disease and unwanted reproduction. Many thousands of them roam the countryside as abandoned, stray, or feral cats.
Rabbit hemorrhagic disease (RHD) is currently the most dangerous disease affecting rabbits. It is caused by a virus and causes blood clotting disorders (hemorrhagic = bleeding, causing hemorrhages). It is highly contagious and occurs worldwide in both domestic and wild rabbits. The infectious disease was first described in China in 1984, which is why it is also known as Chinese disease. Young animals and unvaccinated adult animals are particularly at risk.
Many dog owners will be familiar with this condition, which is colloquially referred to as foreskin inflammation. Recurring, yellowish-green, dripping discharge is very common, especially in young, unneutered male dogs.
A female dog's heat cycle is a natural process that is necessary for reproduction. Dogs quickly realize when this time has come. During the "heat days," you should therefore be particularly careful if you do not want your female dog to have offspring from a male dog that has wandered into your yard. Conversely, if you want to breed, you need to observe your dog's cycle and take her to the chosen male dog at the right time.
Many things are easier when done as a team – this applies to both humans and animals. There are dogs that help people live with disabilities. These dogs are not only special animals, they are also specially trained.
Are you one of those people who dream of teaching Beo to talk? Training and taming birds requires patience and empathy for your feathered friend. Nothing is impossible, but some species are more talented at speech than others, while others prefer to live their own lives in small flocks and are not particularly interested in "conversing" with humans.
Horses are flight animals. They need their sense of sight to spot enemies as quickly as possible. We therefore sometimes have to battle our favorite's instincts, because a horse sees—and flees.
Sarcoid is the most common tumor in horses worldwide. It is a connective tissue tumor involving the skin that does not form metastases in internal organs but often recurs after surgical removal. It is therefore referred to as a semi-malignant tumor. Horses of all breeds and ages are affected, as well as donkeys and mules.
You've probably heard sayings like these before: Cats only see their owners as "can openers"! Cats aren't dogs, waiting to serve their masters... But cats can learn rules too.
Tetanus is a usually fatal, notifiable infectious disease caused by the toxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium tetani. This disease, also known as lockjaw, has been known since ancient times and is widespread throughout the world. Both humans and horses are particularly susceptible to the toxin, whereas dogs have only a low sensitivity and therefore do not need to be vaccinated.
Some people love it when their pony's coat shines in all its glory and even sparkles here and there. It is groomed and sprayed, the mane is braided, and hardly a hair is out of place. But coat and hoof care is not just a matter of appearance. Regular brushing means much more than that.
Horse ears come in different sizes, depending on breed and genetics. They usually feel soft and fluffy – but not every horse likes to have its early warning system touched. If you are a horse owner and your horse lets you stroke its fluffy ears, this is actually a sign that your horse trusts you. The horse's ear is something very special.
