The Tennessee Walking Horse is a special breed of horse that is known for its smooth gait and excellent temperament. It is a popular choice for western riding, trail riding, and show events. While these animals are considered to be hardy and healthy, there are still some health concerns that owners should be aware of. In this article, we will discuss the overall health of Tennessee Walking Horses and what owners can do to keep their horses in peak condition.
History of the Tennessee Walking Horse
The Tennessee Walking Horse was developed in the mid-1800s in the United States. It is a cross between the Narragansett Pacer and the Canadian Pacer. The breed is known for its smooth gait, which is a result of its natural four-beat gait. This makes it a preferred horse for riders who require a smooth ride.
Appearance of the Tennessee Walking Horse
The Tennessee Walking Horse is typically a medium to large-sized horse. It has a strong, muscular build with a long, arched neck and a short back. The breed has a wide variety of colors and patterns, including black, bay, chestnut, grey, dun, palomino, and roan.
Health of the Tennessee Walking Horse
Tennessee Walking Horses are generally considered to be hardy and healthy animals. They are known for their good temperaments and willingness to work, which makes them ideal horses for trail riding, western riding, and show events.
Common Health Issues
Despite their generally good health, Tennessee Walking Horses are still susceptible to certain health problems. These can include:
- Respiratory Issues: Tennessee Walking Horses are prone to respiratory problems, such as heaves and COPD. These conditions can be exacerbated by dusty conditions or poor ventilation in the stall.
- Hoof Problems: Tennessee Walking Horses are prone to hoof issues, such as cracked hooves, thrush, and white line disease. Regular hoof trimming and proper nutrition can help prevent these issues.
- Colic: Tennessee Walking Horses are prone to colic, which is a potentially serious intestinal disorder. Eating too much grain, ingesting foreign objects, or drinking contaminated water can all cause colic.
Preventive Care
The best way to keep a Tennessee Walking Horse healthy is to provide it with regular preventive care. This includes:
- Regular Veterinary Examinations: Regular veterinary examinations are important for monitoring the horse’s overall health. The veterinarian can also administer vaccinations, check for parasites, and provide other treatments as needed.
- Proper Nutrition: Tennessee Walking Horses require a balanced diet that includes high-quality hay, grain, and supplements. Supplements should be chosen based on the horse’s age, activity level, and health.
- Regular Exercise: Regular exercise is important for maintaining the horse’s overall health and fitness level. This can include riding, turnout in the pasture, or simply hand-walking the horse.
- Hoof Care: Regular hoof care is essential for maintaining the health of the horse’s hooves. This should include trimming, cleaning, and treating any hoof ailments.
Signs of Illness
It is important for owners to be aware of the signs of illness in their Tennessee Walking Horses so that they can seek treatment as soon as possible. Some signs of illness include:
- Lethargy: A Tennessee Walking Horse that is lethargic or uninterested in its surroundings may be ill. This can be accompanied by a decrease in appetite and an unwillingness to move.
- Lameness: Lameness is a sign of injury or illness. It is important to note the location and severity of the lameness to determine the cause.
- Fever: A fever is a sign of infection or illness. A horse with a fever may also have a decreased appetite and may be depressed or unresponsive.
- Respiratory Issues: Coughing, wheezing, or labored breathing can indicate a respiratory infection or other issue. It is important to seek veterinary care as soon as possible.
Common Treatments
If a Tennessee Walking Horse is diagnosed with a medical condition, there are a variety of treatments available. These can include:
- Medication: Medications such as antibiotics and anti-inflammatories can be used to treat infections and reduce inflammation.
- Surgery: Surgery may be necessary to treat certain injuries or conditions. This should only be done by a qualified veterinarian.
- Therapy: Physical therapy, massage, and other therapies may be used to treat musculoskeletal conditions. This should be done by a qualified therapist.
- Nutrition: A balanced diet and proper supplementation can help to keep the horse healthy and reduce the risk of certain conditions.
Conclusion
Tennessee Walking Horses are generally healthy animals, but they are still susceptible to certain health problems. Owners should be aware of the common health issues, preventive care measures, and signs of illness. By providing regular veterinary care, proper nutrition, and regular exercise, owners can help ensure that their horses stay healthy and happy.
References
- American Veterinary Medical Association. (n.d.). Tennessee Walking Horse. Retrieved from https://www.avma.org/KB/Resources/Reference/Pages/Tennessee-Walking-Horse-Backgrounder.aspx
- American Veterinary Medical Association. (2016). Common health problems of horses. Retrieved from https://www.avma.org/KB/Resources/LiteratureReviews/Pages/Common-Health-Problems-of-Horses.aspx
- Horse & Hound. (2020). Tennessee Walking Horse – breed profile. Retrieved from https://www.horseandhound.co.uk/horse-breeds/tennessee-walking-horse/