Bertolie
Well-Known Member
My 20 year old gelding has recently been diagnosed with low grade bilateral hock arthritis. We have not had any xrays done as yet though that will probably be the next step. He was started on 2 x danilon sachets twice daily and gradually reduced down to half a sachet once a day which is what he is currently on. I will speak to my vet later this week to decide on the next step.
He has been put on a veterinary joint supplement (as the insurance will cover this) and is normally turned out 24/7 during the summer, but due to the hot weather and lack of shade/shelter in his paddock he is coming in during the day and out at night.
I know he could do with losing some weight so he is having soaked hay during the day but, due to personal circumstances, he is not currently being exercised. Hopefully this will re-commence at the weekend.
He is currently shod all round and not a suitable candidate to go barefoot and still be hacked.
Any advice for managing an arthritic horse would be appreciated .... shoes, diet, exercise, complimentary therapies .. anything that will help me make sure he is comfortable and able to be ridden for as long as possible.
He has been put on a veterinary joint supplement (as the insurance will cover this) and is normally turned out 24/7 during the summer, but due to the hot weather and lack of shade/shelter in his paddock he is coming in during the day and out at night.
I know he could do with losing some weight so he is having soaked hay during the day but, due to personal circumstances, he is not currently being exercised. Hopefully this will re-commence at the weekend.
He is currently shod all round and not a suitable candidate to go barefoot and still be hacked.
Any advice for managing an arthritic horse would be appreciated .... shoes, diet, exercise, complimentary therapies .. anything that will help me make sure he is comfortable and able to be ridden for as long as possible.