A little debate: Older horses. Are they better off in or out?

[teapot]

Far better for them to be out - helps keep any arthritic joints moving and prevents stiffening up

As long as they're kept warm and properly fed, can't see wha the problem is. The oldest ponies at the yard are nearly 30 and they're all out 24/7

 

[conniegirl]

ive got 4 veterans, 2 26 yearolds, an 18 yearold and a 17 yearold. All live out 24/7. All except the 18 yearold are rugged up to thier eyeballs, howevr the 18 yearold is out without rugs.
My 26 yearolds are in such good shape that ive been asked to produce passports and show teeth to the judges in the show ring as they wouldnt believe me they were that old.
The 18 yearold is still winning at county level shows, is a complete nutter on the XC course and a demon at dressage. not showing even the slightest sign of stiffness.
One of my 26 yearolds DEMANDs to be taken for a ride, and happily pisses off up hills at a gallop with his ride when he feels inclined to!

 

[Starbucks]

As long as they are nice and warm then out 24/7 sounds fab!

Our hunters are in pretty much 24/7 in the winter because they have nowhere else to go!!

They don't buck and are happy though so alls good.