In an ideal world, every senior horse would pass away naturally and peacefully, having enjoyed a good quality of life with minimal suffering. Unfortunately, this is not always the case, which is why we must be prepared.

Planning ahead for your horse’s emergency and end-of-life care is one of the most responsible and compassionate steps you can take as an owner. Creating a written directive ensures your wishes are clear, your horse’s needs are met, and your barn manager and veterinarian have the guidance they need during critical moments. From recording basic details and veterinary contacts to outlining financial limits, euthanasia authority, and aftercare preferences, this document provides peace of mind and helps prevent confusion during stressful times.

One day in the 1980s, Lindsey Serafini’s grandfather was watching his Standardbred horses getting shod.
“The farrier was shoeing with hoof pads and my grandfather said, ‘I could make those,’” says Serafini, who is a fifth-generation owner of Castle Plastics.

Like humans, horses are living longer than ever. Typically, older horses will live into their twenties and often into their thirties. It’s natural to worry about your horse’s health into the golden years. Studies report that 70 percent of horses aged 20 years or older have some type of health issue requiring modifications in management practices and veterinary care. Let’s examine the six key issues your older horse might face, and tips to help you keep your horse feeling comfortable during those senior years.

The average life expectancy of horses is around 20 years, but some survive into their 40s. Horses 20 years of age and older increasingly account for a larger percentage of the population, in part due to advances in veterinary care.