PetLvr.com - [The Blog]

Last spring, my Off-Track Thoroughbred (OTTB) gelding, Ember, began colicking repeatedly. He would begin lying down and nipping at his sides just before feeding time, as often as two or three times per week. The episodes tended to coincide with excitement, such as dinner being a little late or exercising after a meal. A dose of Banamine was all he needed to perk him back up, but nonetheless I was very concerned.

Colic is the number one cause of death in horses. Essentially, colic is a catch-all term for a bellyache, and the underlying cause can range from gas to a twisted intestine. Sometimes the condition requires surgery; sometimes it’s too late even for surgical intervention. Fortunately (knock wood) Ember has never had a colic serious enough to require hospitalization. However, I was eager to find a solution to the recurring problem before it escalated. More →

By OTTB, I mean, of course, an Off the Track Thoroughbred. In other words, a retired racehorse, like my Ember, aka Embrace Reality, pictured below.

OTTBs can excel in most disciplines, are generally inexpensive compared to young sporthorses that are not retiring from the track, and have been exposed to varied environments, sights, sounds, and experiences. If you’re an experienced rider considering buying a young sporthorse prospect, the option of purchasing or adopting a Thoroughbred off the racetrack might be an attractive option. Before you head for the backside to chat up trainers, here are a few things to consider: More →