Think this is the end of the riding road

[annieapple7]

Hi everyone
Very sad today. My boy, 23 yo TB cross has come to the end of the riding road. He is sound, but with failing eyesight and arthritis in his knees. He loves going out and since we knew his sight was failing we have slowed down and are very careful with him. Today my friend rode him out and he tripped in walk and fell over completely - rolled right over. Thank goodness she was unhurt, although shocked. She checked he was OK, then got on again (more for her own nerve, she said) and he seemed sound, so she went on a bit further, and after about another 5 - 10 minutes he fell over again. She said he did not trip that time, it was as though his leg went from under him.
It is too dangerous to ride a horse that falls over isn't it? He has never done this before, although he does trip and stumble a bit....probably at least once and maybe a couple of times per ride.
I feel so sad as he is my baby. I have had him for 19 years. This is the end of an era. I'm doing the right thing aren't I?

[50BalesOfHay]

Yes, time for pipe and slippers for him, and the start of a new chapter.

[Lovesswimming]

Hi Annie

I think you're doing the right thing by retiring him. it sounds like both the conditions together may be making him unstable. maybe take him out inhand and see how he is to be sure and have the vet over to make an assessment. I went over a horse that tripped onto both knees once, even if its not a really bad fall the graze injuries are bad and the peak breaking off my hat saved my nose from breaking. not great for the horses knees either!
he's very lucky to have you as his owner and for so long.

[annieapple7]

Thanks both. I might lead him out from my other horse to see how he gets on, although I have never seen him stumble loose in the field! I will ring the vet, but I think the decision is made.

[70isaLimitNotaTarget]

No advice but just to say ow and for you to see your vetran boy fall like that.

Hope you friend and your horse are ok.

[mrslaughan]

I would say an emphatic yes - what if he fell on his rider?

[lovebeansontoast]

Oh Annie I'm so sorry, but I agree I woud retire him. This is particularly poignant for me with my lad also being 23, and looking greyer by the year. I can see I'll be in your position sometime soon, and like you, am not looking forward to it one bit. :(