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  Discussion on Stiffness in older pony
Author Message
Member:
Lmmartin

Posted on Sunday, Dec 18, 2005 - 10:49 am:

I wasn't sure where to put this post
Since it has gotten colder, my 23 yr old pony has been pretty stiff when walking. He can get up and down ok. Its just when he walks and he walks slower than normal. He is not lame, not heat etc. He is on pasture 24/7, so does quite a bit or roaming/walking around. He is not ridden anymore.

So my question is what can I do to help him??I know there are a TON of joint supplements out there, but I don't really know what he needs. Please help. This is my first time caring for a elder horse so I need some help, as you can probably tell by some of my posts
Moderator:
DrO

Posted on Monday, Dec 19, 2005 - 9:26 am:

Hello Lori,
First you have to properly identify why he is stiffer. Yes it is possible this is his joints but if the ground is frozen hard when you notice the stiffness you might find it is his feet that are troubling him. You should be able to quickly identify this by walking him on alternating soft and hard ground and observing the difference in the stride. If it does turn out to be arthritis see, Equine Diseases » Lameness » Joint & Bone Diseases » Arthritis and DJD: An Overview and if it is feet see Equine Diseases » Lameness » Diseases of the Hoof » Overview of Diagnosis and Diseases of the Foot. Older ponies are prone to Cushings and chronic founder so if you remain uncertain why your pony is sore get your vet out to help you with this problem.
DrO
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