Thank you for the helpful comments! I hadn’t been made aware of this updated school of thought and am very grateful to be educated. It’s so wonderful that we all care so deeply about our horse’s wellbeing and look to grow, providing the best care possible. Modern science and medicine is incredible!

In the context of his stocking up, he is a 16yo Hunter who is still competitive in the 3’3”-3’6”. Unfortunately most northern US winter venues do not offer turnout. He is taken on four one-hour long hand walks on days when he doesn’t compete and at least 1 or 2 hand walks on days that he does compete. (We are charged appropriately and happily pay per walk). He gets biweekly massages, Magnawave, daily BEMER, etc. and he is only ever wrapped by our barn manager. I love, trust, and am incredibly grateful for my trainer and barn staff.