Newbie with a question re elderly horse who can't get up

Hi all,

I'm new to this forum, but it seemed a good place to chat with other horse owners. We just bought an older welsh pony (25). She is a bit stiff in the hocks, which doesn't seem to bother her when my 7 yr old rides--Ginger will trot etc. without any problem. However, twice in the last ten days, she has laid down and not been able to hoist herself back to her feet. If I put a halter on her and pull, it has given her enough bracing to manage to get to her feet, after which she acts stiff in her hind legs for a few hours. I'm concerned that at some point we'll not be able to get her up if her legs are too locked up, and wondered has anyone else dealt with this before? Any suggestions?

Thanks!

Hi, welcome to the forum!

Sorry I've not had much experience with the older horse, but it doesn't sound very good. :(

Have you been in contact with your vet? If you haven't it might be a good idea.

It would be a good idea to at least talk to a vet and get their opinion. Is she on any kind of joint supplements to help relieve the pain of arthritis?

hi,

I would agree with the other you need to see a vet, to make sure it is nothing more serious. it could just be a joint problem, or it could be a central nerve problem.