Photo by Mare Distler

Q: How do I safely introduce turnout to a recently-retired racehorse?

A: So, you’ve joined the ranks of the OTTB owners, and you know that “turnout fixes everything” from stall vices to hoof health to overall welfare — BUT before you just send your new bestie out to frolic, here are some things to consider.

Your horse has probably NOT been turned out in a number of years. While some race owners do give their horses downtime at local farms, your horse probably hasn’t had extensive turnout since it was a yearling. It’s going to be a new endeavor to figure out his space, terrain and possibly climate.

Let’s assume for the sake of this article that your horse is sound and healthy and cleared for turnout: if you’re rehabilitating an injury, work closely with your veterinarian to determine a safe turnout schedule. Your vet may advise some level of sedation for initial turnout for your horse’s long-term safety and soundness. Sometimes, when a horse is particularly fractious, even if he’s completely sound, I may still use a light dose of sedation. Again, work with your veterinarian to determine dosage.

To keep your horse safe and healthy, introduce turnout in a small-enough space that they can’t get into a full gallop right way. If it’s a dry lot, include some forage for them to snack on. Take notes of their behavior: do they want in quickly? Are they bothered by heat/cold/bugs? Are they super active or happy to mosey?

Wire and other hard to see fencing should be marked. Many OTTBs have not been out in field fence, tape or tensile, and may not even notice it’s there. Make sure to make it visible to your horse. You may consider hand-walking the horse around the space before they’re turned out, to expose them to fencelines and any obstacles or variations within the pasture.

Increase the length of time as they seem happy; while most of them will eventually acclimate to long time turnout, their comfort may be to come in for periods to start with.  As they settle, you can introduce larger spaces or longer stints of time.

Introduce friends slowly: most horses that HAVE been turned out during their racing years most likely have been turned out solo where they can see others but not directly interact. Pick a complimentary friend. If your horse is nervous, pick a nice older guy who isn’t bothered by much. If they are active and playful, find a horse that is similar in nature.

If you play it smart, it won’t be long before your horse enjoys his free time outside as much as you do!

Bridget Heasley is a professional trainer based in Ohio. She’s a Thoroughbred Makeover veteran, and works with New Vocations Racehorse Adoption Program, having transitioned hundreds of Thoroughbreds and Standardbreds to new careers after racing.