There is no specific age for horse retirement, which makes knowing when your horse has reached that point difficult. It’s a hard decision to make, especially if you’re unsure. Here are a few signs your horse is ready for retirement. 

3 Signs Your Horse is Ready to Retire

1. Decrease in Energy

If you’ve noticed your horse doesn’t have the same pep in their step as before, it may be time to consider horse retirement. Everyone has off days, but if it’s a consistent issue, your horse may need to take it easy. Monitor their athletic ability, flexibility, and signs of weakness, such as swaying when you mount them. 

2. Physical Impairments

Aside from injury, which can lead to automatic retirement depending upon the severity, there are several physical signs to watch for. Keep an eye on their gait. Watch for lameness or shortening of their stride. Stiffness and soreness that don’t go away quickly after a warm-up, and weight loss or loss of muscle mass are all indications your horse needs to step away from the daily grind.

Some other, less obvious physical indicators are a dry coat or a change in shedding patterns and digestive problems. If your horse’s appetite has decreased or their manure is wet, discuss these symptoms with a veterinarian to see if it’s a temporary or long-term issue.

3. Attitude

You know your horse’s personality, so when you begin to see them displaying unusual behavior, they may be trying to signal an issue. If your horse is unwilling to perform certain activities that they used to be comfortable with, or if they seem anxious or depressed, it can mean they’ve reached burnout, and it’s time to think about retirement. 

If you find yourself in need of boarding or other horse retirement services in Oceanside, CA, check out Oceanside Equestrian Center. With over 25 acres for your horse of pasture and comfortable, clean stalls, this compassionate staff will work hard to make your horse feel at home. Learn more about their services online or call today to schedule a tour at (760) 717-1101.