Meet Hugs, a 36-year-old off-the-track Thoroughbred mare and one of my longest-standing clients. She’s living proof that senior horses can thrive well into their golden years with the right care, attention, and support.
Several years ago, Hugs faced a major setback when she dislocated her hip. No one is sure how it happened, but the injury left her with significant challenges. Thanks to her dedicated owner and a regular program of equine massage and bodywork, she’s still moving comfortably and enjoying life.
During our sessions, we focus on:
- Supporting compensating muscles that work harder due to her hip injury.
- Strengthening stabilizing muscles around the hip joint.
- Encouraging relaxation and pain relief through targeted massage, essential oils, and gentle stretches.
- Simple exercises that keep her mobile, balanced, and engaged.
Her owner also provides daily “spa treatments,” making sure Hugs feels pampered and supported every day. And it shows – after her massage sessions, Hugs consistently moves more freely and carries herself in a much more balanced, comfortable way.
Why Equine Bodywork Matters for Senior Horses
As horses age, just like us, their bodies go through changes – joints stiffen, muscles weaken, and circulation slows. That’s where equine massage and bodywork come in, offering powerful natural support.
✨ Benefits for the Senior Horse:
- Improved Circulation: Massage helps keep blood and lymph fluids moving, supporting tissue health and recovery.
- Enhanced Flexibility & Mobility: Gentle stretches and bodywork keep joints and muscles supple, helping reduce stiffness.
- Pain Relief & Relaxation: Targeted techniques help release muscle tension, reduce discomfort, and promote a sense of well-being.
- Better Balance & Posture: By addressing compensations and tightness, bodywork helps horses carry themselves more comfortably.
- Quality of Life: Perhaps the most important benefit – senior horses feel better, move easier, and enjoy their days more fully.
Hugs’ Legacy
At 36 years old, Hugs continues to inspire. She’s a testament to the resilience of senior horses and to the effectiveness of equine bodywork in maintaining comfort, mobility, and quality of life – even in the face of serious injury.
Every horse deserves to age gracefully, and with tools like massage, stretching, essential oils, and thoughtful care, we can help make those senior years some of the best.
If you are interested in learning how you too can help support your senior horse(s), I teach many of the same tips and strategies I use with Hugs in my Basic Equine Stretching For The Horse Owner DVD. Get your copy here – https://www.heavenlygaitsequinemassage.com/basic-equine-stretching-for-the-horse-owner-dvd/
👉 Does your senior horse have a story like Hugs’? Share it in the comments – I’d love to hear how bodywork, natural care, or other therapies have helped your older equine friend.
This information is not meant to diagnose, treat or cure any disease or condition, nor is it meant to replace regular veterinary care. Always remember to consult your veterinarian before beginning any treatment plan on your horse!
Lisa Generali-Perez is a Certified Equine Massage Therapist (CEMT), with multiple certifications from several different equine bodywork schools. She incorporates her knowledge and experience with Parelli Natural Horsemanship, equine bodywork, using essential oils for animals and as a veterinary technician to provide her clients with the resources they need to make informed decisions for their horses. She encourages and facilitates network building between equine health care professionals, working together to find the best combination