Is it safe to ride an old horse?

Answer 1

It depends on the horse. A mature horse of any age can be ridden, as long as he is safe, healthy, and sound.

You may want to ask yourself a few questions before you hop on your senior equine.

1) Is he healthy enough to ride? Is he too thin with ribs and hips poking out or too fat with a depression along the spine giving him 'buttcheeks'? Does he have discharge from the nose or eyes? Is he lethargic, with no energy, a dull coat and eyes and a low appetite? You may want to get him checked out by a vet if you are unsure.

2) Is he sound? Does he ever limp or seem reluctant to go faster than a walk when turned out to pasture? When trotted in hand, is his gait irregular or does his head bob more than usual? When you hold up a foot, does his leg buckle beneath him or is he in obvious pain while standing on three legs?

3) Has he been ridden recently? If it's been more than a few months you may want to take it slow at first, reintroducing the saddle and bridle and some basic ground manners before you're sure he still remembers how to behave.

If the answer to any of these questions is "No" or "I'm not sure," have your vet, trainer, instructor, or someone else with equine experience assess your golden oldie before hopping on him to ride. Remember, if you have any doubts at all, ask a professional. Your and your horses comfort and safety are of utmost importance.

Senior horses are some of the best teachers, and if he's healthy, sound, and well-trained, you could have many wonderful years left with your old friend, provided you keep his older brain and body in mind and slow down the pace for him.

Answer 2

If the horse is still good and strong, yes.