Ex racehorses have been a popular choice for many riders looking for a new horse for many years. But, do ex racehorses make good horses? It is a difficult question to answer as there are many factors to consider. In this article, we will be looking at the benefits and drawbacks of owning an ex racehorse, as well as the things you should look for before making the decision to buy one. We will also discuss the level of training and care that should be given to ex racehorses, and the importance of finding the right home for them.
What is an ex racehorse and why would you want one?
An ex racehorse is a horse that has been retired from racing, either due to injury, age, or simply because they are no longer competitive. Ex racehorses can make excellent riding horses and have many advantages to owning them.
Athleticism
Ex racehorses have been bred and trained to be highly athletic and have great endurance. This makes them ideal for riding events such as dressage, jumping, and eventing. They also have the potential to excel in other disciplines such as show jumping, eventing, and endurance riding.
Training
Ex racehorses have been trained for racing, so they often have a good foundation of training that can be built upon. This can be an advantage for those who want to save time and money on training costs.
Experience
Ex racehorses are used to being around people and being handled, so they may be less spooky and easier to train than other horses. They also often have a good understanding of the basics such as walk, trot, canter, and stopping and starting.
Drawbacks of owning an ex racehorse
Although there are many advantages to owning an ex racehorse, there are also some drawbacks that should be considered.
Age
Ex racehorses are often older than other horses, which may mean they have more health issues. This can be an issue if they require a lot of vet care or if they are not able to handle the work they are asked to do.
Behavior
Ex racehorses have often been in a high-pressure environment and have been trained to perform at their peak. This can make them more difficult to handle, as they may not respond well to commands and may be more prone to spooking.
Costs
Ex racehorses can be more expensive than other horses due to their training and experience. They may also require more regular vet care, farrier visits, and specialist equipment.
Finding the right ex racehorse
If you decide that an ex racehorse is the right choice for you, there are a few things you should consider when looking for the right horse.
Health
It is important to ensure that the horse is healthy. This means asking for a recent vet check and looking for any signs of lameness or injury.
Personality
It is also important to ensure that the horse has the right personality for you. This means looking for a horse that is calm and relaxed, but still willing to work hard.
Training
You should also consider the horse’s level of training. If the horse has a good foundation of training, it can be a great advantage as it will save you time and money.
Level of care for ex racehorses
Ex racehorses require a higher level of care than other horses. This includes providing them with the right nutrition, regular vet care, and an appropriate exercise regime.
Nutrition
Ex racehorses require a balanced diet that is high in protein and low in sugar. They may also need supplements to ensure they get all the nutrients they need.
Vet Care
It is important to ensure that ex racehorses receive regular vet care to ensure they stay healthy. This includes regular check-ups, vaccinations, and teeth and hoof care.
Exercise
Ex racehorses need to have an appropriate exercise regime to ensure they stay fit and healthy. This should include regular work outs and plenty of turn out.
Finding the right home for an ex racehorse
It is important to find the right home for an ex racehorse. This means finding someone who is experienced in handling and caring for ex racehorses, and who is willing to provide them with the care and attention they need.
Conclusion
In conclusion, ex racehorses can make excellent riding horses and have many advantages to owning them. However, there are also some drawbacks that should be considered, such as their age, behavior, and cost. It is also important to ensure that the horse is healthy, has the right personality for you, and has the right level of training. Ex racehorses require a higher level of care, including a balanced diet, regular vet care, and an appropriate exercise regime. Finally, it is important to find the right home for the horse, with someone who is experienced in handling and caring for ex racehorses.
References
- Carney, M. (2016). How to Choose an Ex-Racehorse. Retrieved from https://www.equisearch.com/horses_care/horse_breeds/racehorses/how-to-choose-an-ex-racehorse/
- Cordner, A. (2017). 10 Reasons to Buy an Ex Racehorse. Retrieved from https://www.horsemart.co.uk/advice/10-reasons-to-buy-an-ex-racehorse/
- The British Horse Society. (2020). Ex Racehorse Retraining Guide. Retrieved from https://www.bhs.org.uk/our-charity/campaigns/ex-racehorse-retraining-guide
- The Horse. (2020). Ex-Racehorse Care. Retrieved from https://www.thehorse.com/care/ex-racehorse-care