Q: My pony is 18, and I want her to live as long as possible. What can I do now to set her up for many more healthy years to come?

A: It’s great to hear that you are already planning how to make her life as comfortable and enjoyable as possible in her later years! The good news is that there is a lot you can do to help her, even at this early stage. Much of it is just basic routine horse care but with a slight twist to account for her older age.

1. Look after the teeth. Older ponies need a complete dental examination done at least once a year, but ideally every six months. Older ponies get lots more tooth issues, and they need to be able to chew well to digest their food and stay at a healthy weight.
2. Provide good nutrition. Make sure your pony has good quality forage and a balanced diet that meets her needs. Speak to an equine nutritionist to get a diet designed for your pony’s life stage, workload etc.
3. Keep her moving. Keep your pony doing whatever movement she can comfortably manage and enjoy. If she can’t be ridden, still get her to do whatever light exercise she can manage. Chat to your vet or instructor about the best exercise for your pony, but whatever you do, make sure you work with her regularly. Older ponies need small amounts of work frequently. They cannot just be ridden on weekends.
4. Keep her feet in good shape. Keep your farrier visits as regular as they are now to ensure that your pony’s feet remain balanced and healthy. This is even more important with age, not less!
5. Watch out for Cushing’s Disease: Look out for a winter coat that stays too long, weight loss and increased drinking and urination, as these can be signs of Cushing’s Disease. Screening annually for this condition can allow you to catch it early and get your horse onto treatment if necessary. Cushing’s can affect the healing process and result in weakened muscle tissue, so an early diagnosis can really be beneficial. 

Ultimately, if you continue to care for your pony as best you can, she will hopefully live a long and healthy life. By preparing as you are, you give yourself and your mare the best chance of many happy years together!