Winter is here and we are definitely feeling it with those icy mornings.
So are our golden oldies and arthritic horses. For years I have rehabilitated older arthritic horses, helped owners manage their pain and diets.
One thing I have found helps are dear old horses is keeping their arthritic joints warm.
Pictured is Cinders my old mare who sadly passed at 36. She had severe arthritis in her legs and through winter I kept warm paddock boots on her.
Also pictured is Yodel (grey) he is now 34 and he is a horse that came in to be rehabilitated from constant soreness from his arthritis.
That was about 4-5 years ago and he is still here with me. He is happy and his pain is managed very well.
As he is getting older the cold weather does affect his arthritic legs so we have started booting him at night which is making a huge difference.
The icy cold nights can cause some pain and stiffness in arthritic joints and often we see some soreness and stiffness in the mornings after a cold night. Once we start using the boots we eliminate that from happening.
I do recommend using some warm fleece boots with a waterproof material on the outside.
Also having some spares in case they get wet and muddy.
Make sure never to leave wet and muddy boots on as they can aggravate their skin.
Also make sure to do them up tight to avoid slipping down the legs.
If you plan to boot your golden oldie I also recommend to check them daily, don't leave boots on for days without checking them.
They really can make a huge difference in the management of pain and stiffness in arthritic horses.
