How to decide if the neurological horse is safe to ride

Making a determination about the suitability of riding a horse with neurologic disease is often difficult, and carries with it substantial responsibility. In addition to the safety of the rider, there must also be consideration of the safety of people handling the horse on the ground, as well as a consideration of the safety and appropriateness of using the horse from an animal welfare perspective. The fundamental questions involved are 1) the severity of the deficit, 2) the nature of the deficit (i.e. is it a seizure disorder, spinal ataxia or peripheral neuropathy?), 3) the nature of the discipline for which the horse will be used, 4) the horse’s demeanour, and 5) the rider/handler ...