The AAEP has established guidelines related to the retirement of horses from racing and it is suggested that these same guidelines can help owners who are no longer able to take care of older horses make good decisions about the future of a particular horse and whether or not a retirement facility or a rescue that rehomes horses is appropriate.
Conditions associated with physical limitations often prevent older horses from future athletic endeavors, although they may continue to be productive by providing horseback riding opportunities for their owners or for riding camps and other horse-oriented situations.
The veterinarian advising or making recommendations as to the future use of a horse should be familiar with the demands and health requirements of that use, and it is recommended that he veterinarian’s prognosis for athletic ability in a specific horse be conservative in order
To avoid situations where failed expectations result in a horse becoming unwanted. The first step in determining the prognosis for a horse to be transitioned to another use is a comprehensive evaluation. This should include as detailed a medical history as is available and a thorough musculoskeletal, respiratory, cardiac and ophthalmic examination.
Many retirement facilities have very limited capacity and lack resources to support animals for a long period. Therefore, it is in the interest of both the horse and the facility to make prudent and efficient decisions regarding individual animals in order to responsibly manage financial resources.
The musculoskeletal condition of a horse is of great importance. Lameness and serious hoof problems can be very expensive and time-consuming to treat and any future owner should be fully aware of the musculoskeletal condition of the horse and any problems associated with the horse's upkeep.
Respiratory conditions are a second item of importance in making a decision about a horse's future use. Upper and lower airway diseases or inflammation. Although medical and surgical treatments for respiratory conditions may improve airway function, a well documented history and endoscopic examination prior to referral to a retirement facility is appropriate to help clarify the potential of affected horses.
Gastro-intestinal problems can lead to a low body condition score and affect the horse's appearance and energy level. Adequate nutrition and good general care will reverse most underweight conditions. Horses may also lose condition upon the lowering of activity level.
Gastric ulcers are a common cause of a lower body condition score and may require gastroscopy for accurate diagnosis. Elimination of the stress of work or competition may improve this condition but some horses will require appropriate therapy. Alternatively, the horse may be treated for ulcers and its response to therapy evaluated.
Chronic diarrhea is a serious condition and will require extensive workup and treatment.
The costs of housing, retraining and rehoming retired horses can be considerable. These costs are increased if the horse requires significant veterinary medical care. We have discussed many of the common problems associated with this transition.
There is little national data to reference the costs of veterinary care for these animals. Many adoption facilities enjoy close relationships with veterinary practices that render care at significantly reduced costs. These practices see this care as a service to the horse and the facilities.
Humane euthanasia is a legitimate consideration for animals that have chronic unsoundness that renders them unsuitable candidates for adoption, or for animals that are uncomfortable to the extent they cannot humanely live out their days in a field or a facility where they can continue to bring enjoyment to caretakers and horse lovers.