Retired horses including ex-racehorses and former riding horses require careful management to maintain welfare through their senior years, with many struggling to find appropriate care.
Retired horses face welfare challenges throughout their later years. Ex-racehorses have been highly trained for a specific purpose and require patient retraining for alternative disciplines or companion roles. Horses not suitable for rehoming sometimes end up in welfare situations through multiple ownership changes. Older horses have specific veterinary needs including dental maintenance, joint care, and appropriate nutrition for senior metabolic conditions. Equine Cushing disease and equine metabolic syndrome are common in older horses and cause significant welfare problems if undiagnosed. The cost of keeping a horse that is no longer economically productive creates pressure for suboptimal care or premature euthanasia. Horse charities provide safety nets but are overwhelmed with demand.