Colic – to Walk or Not to Walk?
Myth:
Always walk a colicky horse.
Busted:
Walking won’t cure colic and it isn’t always in your horse’s best interest (or yours) to walk him for hours and hours.
Contrary to popular belief, there isn’t evidence that rolling causes the gut to twist; however, a thrashing horse can injure themselves in other ways.
First and foremost, if you suspect your horse has colic call the vet immediately.
Follow these guidelines while waiting for the vet to arrive:
- If a colicky horse is lying quietly in a safe place, let him rest.
- If your horse is uncomfortable and rolling, or if he is in a place that is dangerous and you can safely do so, get him up and walk him.
- If a horse is thrashing about, keep your distance until the vet arrives.