Geriatric horse
A geriatric horse is an equine that may show signs of physical and mental decline, which generally limits its ability to participate in most equestrian activities.
Common signs of geriatric horses include dental changes, graying of certain areas on the head, a pronounced arch in the back, and stiffness in movement.
However, geriatric horses can present economic and ethical challenges, as owners may not always anticipate the longevity of their animals or the long-term costs associated with their care.
The life expectancy of domesticated horses has increased due to improved management of their diet and care, as well as a growing bond between humans and these animals.
[7] Wild horses face various challenges that contribute to higher mortality rates, including scarcity of food and water, as well as predation.
[14][16] Remarkably, some geriatric horses can still compete at high levels in selective events; for instance, Nobby became the world endurance champion at the age of 16.
[15] As horses age, certain physical changes become apparent: the back tends to arch, withers, and pelvic bones become more prominent, and movement becomes stiffer.
[14] Signs of geriatric status may include poor physical condition (such as thinness or a rounded belly), loss of muscle mass, and very sloping pasterns due to the aging of tendons and ligaments.
[17] Most signs that impede a geriatric horse's performance typically emerge between the ages of 16 and 20, with a significant and frequent issue being a loss of locomotion, often indicative of osteoarthritis.
[15][18] In addition to visible signs, the decline in the horse's five senses and the deterioration of various organs, including the respiratory, digestive, and cardiovascular systems, are also notable concerns.
[15] Observing the teeth remains the most dependable method for assessing age in the absence of identification documents, giving rise to the expression, "don't look a gift horse in the mouth".
[21] Historically, reselling a horse for slaughter or exploiting it until it was no longer profitable did not raise significant ethical concerns, as the animal's value was primarily economic.
[29][30] Horses are retired from a variety of activities, including riding schools, competitive sports (such as show jumping and dressage), showmanship, military service, and laboratory research.
[1] Additionally, therapeutic riding centers in the U.S. often accept geriatric horses at no cost from private owners to assist individuals with disabilities.
In France, one of the oldest and most renowned centers is Pech Petit, located in the Lot region, which was founded in July 1970 with the aim of sheltering geriatric horses that are at risk of being sent to slaughterhouses.
Recommended feed options include semi-dried silage, high-quality hay,[26][39] wheat bran, linseed,[26] flakes, or mueslis.
High levels of fiber and straw are generally not advisable, nor should there be excessive amounts of alfalfa[15] or apples, as these can have a laxative effect when consumed in large quantities.
[41] Geriatric horses often face dental issues such as wear, malocclusion, and periodontitis, which can hinder their ability to chew properly.
[1] This weight loss can arise from various factors, including deficiencies, dental issues, lack of appetite, and digestive problems,[43] ultimately increasing the risk of mortality.
[1] In the context of group feeding, geriatric horses may struggle to assert themselves and could be denied access to food due to dominance issues with their pasture mates.
[47][48] Osteoarthritis, characterized by the deterioration of articular cartilage with periods of crisis and remission, is a significant source of pain and discomfort for geriatric horses, often leading to euthanasia.
[51] Pain relief can be achieved through anti-inflammatory medications, and it is advisable to walk and trot the horse to enhance muscle temperature and blood circulation.
[49][20] Additionally, geriatric horses may suffer from osteoporosis and various eyesight issues, leading to increased special needs and a general decline in immune function.
[4] In geriatric horses, colic can be exacerbated by fatty tumors, specifically pedunculated lipomas, which may lead to torsion and obstruction during digestion.
Mortality associated with reproductive system disorders is often linked to late breeding, resulting in complications such as the rupture of the uterine artery during parturition.
[58] In 1990, sociologist and demographer Vérène Chevalier expressed concerns regarding the retirement of horses, arguing that it negatively impacts the equine industry as a whole.
[59][60] Similarly, the High Council for Food, Agriculture and Rural Areas (Conseil général de l'alimentation, de l'agriculture et des espaces ruraux, CGAAER)[61] and the INRA have argued that reducing the number of horses sent to slaughter in favor of retirement could result in a loss of valuable red meat resources.
[33] This fraudulent activity has reportedly intensified during economic downturns[65] In France, concerns about "retirement fraud" began to surface around 2011 and became widely recognized in 2013.
[66] The issue gained significant attention in August 2013 following the discovery of falsified identification papers for horses in Belgium,[63] which posed health risks to consumers.
In the Wolof oral tale Le Cheval enchanté, the horse Samba Bingi Bangi, described as "older than God himself," sacrifices its life to save a young girl who is trapped in a marriage to a lion.
