Providing the Best Care to a Retired Racehorse

Even if you have plenty of experience in keeping horses, the care of a retired racehorse is a far more specialised task. If you find yourself longing to give a retired racehorse a happy, loving home, we suggest doing plenty of research beforehand to make guarantee that you’re up to the task. Caring for a retired racehorse will require patience and resilience, but with a bit of time you’ll be just fine. Here is how to keep your retired racehorse happy and healthy.

The First Things to Consider

No matter how experienced you think you may be, you must also be realistic in your abilities and never be afraid to ask for help should you need it. Keep in mind that racehorses generally aren’t kept tied up outside their stable and upon retirement will like become fidgety and anxious should they find themselves in this situation. Your retired racehorse will also not be accustomed to being ridden in a ‘normal’ way, so training will be required.

Managing Your Retired Racehorse

Racehorses generally aren’t turned out for long periods of time, so all-day turnout will be an entirely new experience for your retired racehorse. While it may eventually be achievable, you should not attempt to rush the all-day turnout and the horse should have free access to stabling at all times. Allow your retiree to access the paddock and his stable without restrictions during the day and close them in at night. Give your horse time to adjust to their new lifestyle while you enjoy a Microgaming no deposit bonus.

Bedding for Your Retired Racehorse

Bedding is an important part of keeping any racehorse healthy and comfortable so you’ll need to take special consideration when it comes to bedding for your retired racehorse. When choosing bedding, consider the following factors:

  • Is the bedding dust-free?
  • Does it provide plenty of support and resilience?
  • Does the bedding keep the top layer of the bed dry?
  • Is it natural?
  • Is it uncontaminated?
  • Is it cost-effective, durable, and easy to maintain?

Introducing New Tack

When it comes to tack, keep in mind that a retired racehorse will not be used to a general purpose saddle and it will likely feel cumbersome and heavy to them. The body shape of a racehorse will also change once they’re retired, but to what extent depends entirely on the effectiveness of your training. You will likely have to procure the services of an experienced saddle fitter in the first few months as muscle development takes place.

Patience and Resilience are Imperative

One of the most important factors of caring for and training a retired racehorse is patience and resilience. You’ll likely find yourself frustrated plenty of times in the beginning, but don’t give up. It’s imperative that you remain calm and confident, no matter what type of behaviour is sent your way. Remember that the life of the racehorse has been turned upside down and we must respect this and give them the space they need to adjust.


About Doreen Cohen