Weight management is an important part of caring for your horse. An overweight horse is at risk for a number of heath issues, including but not limited to;
- Equine Metabolic Syndrome (similar to type 2 diabetes in humans) which can cause a number of issues such as altered metabolism & fat composition, clotting issues, inflammation and damage to blood vessels.
- Joint pain associated with osteoarthritis tends to be worse in overweight horses due to the extra stress on their joints.
- Increased risk of developmental bone and joint problems in young horses.
- Increased risk of hoof distortion.
- Increased stress on soft tissues.
- Increased risk of laminitis.
- Increased stress on the heart and lungs.
- Reduced reproductive efficiency.
- Lethargy, lack of motivation.
- Decreased performance, strength and agility.
- Compromised posture and balance.
Your vet can help you come up with a healthy weight management plan for your horse and advise you on an appropriate, safe exercise plan to help bring your horse to a healthy weight.
Massage can be a valuable tool when bringing an overweight horse back into condition. It will help keep their muscles working freely, support fitness and postural changes and reduce any body pain they might be experiencing from their new regime.
Benefits of massage include improved muscle function, improved joint alignment, mobilized fascia, stronger muscles, increased stride length, enhanced relaxation and improved overall performance.
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