Stiff hips... Help!

[partbredpacer]

My heavy cob mare, Lucky, appears to be rather stiff in her hips, and I don't know what to do. Its not causing her visible pain, but its apparent when she walks, to me anyway. I cannot really afford to have the vet out, and as I don't even know what is causing it, calling the physiotherapist/ chiropractor seems too expensive. Is it worth trying her on 'bute for a while, to see if that helps, and then call the vet/chiro/physio to elliminate the problem? Also, is there any natural products I could try, as I know 'bute is short term only and can damage liver, apparently.

Any advice would be greatly appreciated, Thanks.

 

[millimoo]

Could be a number of things, and to be honest you owe it to your horse to get the vet... Dont mean to sound harsh, not meant that way, but you cannot say your horse is stiff, but not in pain?
Hope she gets well soon

 

[partbredpacer]

I know, I think I might have to. She doesn't actively show any signs of pain, and will still happily tank off with me given any oppertunity. She has, however, had two foals in her life, so that could be the cause of said issue. Thank you for your help