34-year-old horse

[tawirth604]

Hi, folks! I have a 34-year-old QH gelding that does not look his age. He does have arthritis; but other than that, he’s fine. I had officially retired him, but I heard that light exercise would benefit him. He hasn’t been ridden in years. Should I try light exercise or let him stay retired? Any advice is greatly appreciated.

 

[chickens really]

I would keep him retired..Post pictures please..

 

[tawirth604]

I would keep him retired..Post pictures please..

This was taken last year. He looks the same.

 

[chickens really]

This was taken last year. He looks the same.

He looks pretty good..
You don't know though if he has a little bit of soreness in his back and once your riding him it's all about balance, both him and you.
Try him in a round pen first. Start with lounging him and them begin adding tack. He sure is a nice boy..

 

[townchicks]

If he were mine, I wouldn't ride him, but just leading him out and about for an hour a day can be helpful. Does he run around in pasture?

 

[tawirth604]

If he were mine, I wouldn't ride him, but just leading him out and about for an hour a day can be helpful. Does he run around in pasture?

He stays out. I think I’ll leave him be and just love on him. He’s earned it.

 

[chickens really]

He stays out. I think I’ll leave him be and just love on him. He’s earned it.

Awesome decision for an old boy that paid his dues...

 

[chickens really]

I have an Arab that's 18.5 years old and I definitely don't ride him enough anymore. He isn't in top riding condition so I only take him out on short rides around our area.
I definitely love my boy and he always is full of pep and doesn't miss a stride.

 

[tawirth604]

I have an Arab that's 18.5 years old and I definitely don't ride him enough anymore. He isn't in top riding condition so I only take him out on short rides around our area.
I definitely love my boy and he always is full of pep and doesn't miss a stride.

Red has been everywhere. He has been my trail horse since I was a little girl. He was the first horse I ever rode by myself. He has truly taken care of me more times than I can count. He’s very special.

 

[chickens really]

Red has been everywhere. He has been my trail horse since I was a little girl. He was the first horse I ever rode by myself. He has truly taken care of me more times than I can count. He’s very special.

That's so fantastic..
Kupid and I have been partners since he was 7 and very green. He threw me the first time I rode him when trying him out and I bought him on the spot. He definitely takes care of me and our connection is unbreaking..
I trained him myself.