What Does it Take to Care for Horses Competing at the Highest Levels?

Happy Tuesday LinkedIn,

The world of elite equine athletes is as fascinating as it is complex.

Behind every stunning performance at the Olympics or a world-class competition lies a dedicated team of professionals ensuring that horses are in peak condition.

In our recent episode of The Pegasus Podcast, we had the pleasure of hosting Dr. Liberty Getman, a Doctor of Equine Veterinary Medicine and an Equine Technical Services Veterinarian with Zoetis.

Dr. Getman shared her invaluable expertise on what it takes to care for horses - regardless of the level of competition. Below are key takeaways that we discuss on the podcast:

#1. The Passion Behind Equine Veterinary Medicine

Dr. Getman’s journey into equine medicine started with a deep love for horses and a passion for helping them thrive. As a board-certified surgeon and sports medicine specialist, she’s been at the forefront of elite equine care for over 20 years.

One of the things that drives her work is the joy of helping horses compete at the highest levels, ensuring their well-being both in and out of the competition ring.

#2. The Parallels Between Human and Equine Athletes

Dr. Getman draws fascinating parallels between the care of elite human athletes and the care of high-level horses. Just like ultra-marathon runners, which Dr. Getman is herself, these top-performing horses require a holistic approach. This includes a focus on proper nutrition, consistent rest, and regular health check-ins.

A dedicated support team is also crucial, consisting of veterinarians, farriers, trainers, chiropractors, and even acupuncturists. The key is to stay proactive and not wait until a horse is injured before taking action.

#3. The Importance of Proactive Care

One of the standout points from the discussion is the importance of preventive care. High-performing athletes—whether human or equine—must focus on the little things that add up over time. Proper nutrition, high-quality rest, and preparing for the competition environment are non-negotiable for long-term success.

For horses, this means regular vet visits, maintaining a balanced diet, and integrating practices like massage therapy or physiotherapy even before injuries occur.

#4. Regenerative Medicine for Horses

A key advancement in equine sports medicine is the rise of regenerative therapies, which use the horse’s own cells to heal injured tissues and slow down the progression of diseases like arthritis.

Treatments like Pro-Stride? APS and Restigen? PRP are game changers for managing lameness and soft tissue injuries. These therapies work to reduce inflammation while simultaneously slowing disease progression, offering a more comprehensive and long-lasting solution compared to older methods like steroid injections.

#5. Injury Prevention is the Key to Longevity

Consistent check-ins and attention to detail are the best ways to prevent catastrophic injuries. Being aware of the horse’s physical state at all times and addressing minor issues before they escalate is critical.

This proactive approach applies not just to elite athletes but to all horses. As Dr. Getman noted, these preventive steps ensure that horses lead healthier, happier lives and have longer careers.

#6. It Takes a Village

Caring for an elite equine athlete is no small feat. A horse’s success is dependent on the support network around it. Whether it’s the farrier, chiropractor, or massage therapist, each team member plays a pivotal role. But ultimately, the horse owner is at the center, making informed decisions and ensuring their equine partner receives the best care possible.

Elite equine care is about taking care of the fundamentals and having a strong, proactive support team. By doing this, horses can continue to perform at the highest levels while staying healthy and happy. Whether you're competing in the Olympics or enjoying weekend rides, these insights can help every rider and horse owner take their horse’s well-being to the next level.

Listen to this episode on Spotify, Apple, or wherever you listen to your podcasts.

Before you listen...

Every equestrian competitor knows, a great performance horse score requires the right balance of preparation, feel, and focus. It also requires a happy, healthy horse. Zoetis has been supporting horses, riders, and veterinarians for more than 70 years. With regenerative medicine devices like Pro-Stride APS, Zoetis is always by your side in the barn, down the centerline, and everywhere in between.

Visit ZoetisEquine.com or follow @Zoetis Equine on Facebook and Instagram to learn more.