cold back

Question
I have an 18 yr old qh (decendent of poco bueno) that has recently started biting at me, raising is hind leg and swishing his tail when I tack him up. When he tried to bite me the first time I repremanded him and now he will bite at the air. I have always been very kind about tacking up my horses, gradually tightening the cinch. I'm wondering if he hasn't become cold backed.  It's been a long winter and he has not been riden in quite some time due to the weather.  Therefore, he is a little overweight and out of shape.  Please advise.  Thank You

Answer
Hello Jeannie,

If by "cold back" you mean painful spine or arthritis in the spine, this is definitely a possibility.  You could use more pads, you could put him on a supplement for joints, or a painkiller.  But first you should have your vet check him out.

A long winter should not make a horse cold backed, but an injury sustained while in the snow or getting up on ice may well have done it. He could have pulled a muscle in the ice and snow and it may need time to heal.

If the vet says nothing is wrong but old age, he will probably recommend a supplement and then when you tack up and ride, walk him a bit before you tighten the cinch.

Best wishes,
Dorothy