Is Suspensory Injury Career Ending?

[FEIJuniorBound]

I am wondering what are all your thoughts on suspensory injuries. I am looking at a VERY nice horse, beautiful warmblood, well trained in dressage for what I am needing and he is CHEAP! The only issue is that he sustained a suspensory injury several years ago. He was totally re-habbed and is completely sound today, in full training and has previously been vetted where he passed with flying colors.

[alove4horses]

Is Suspensory Injury Career Ending?

He was totally re-habbed and is completely sound today, in full training and has previously been vetted where he passed with flying colors.

I think you just answered your own question. In my opinion it sounds like he is recovered nicely. Animals are like people, they too can heel and in time go back to work. I think as long as your are not going to push him to really high levels and you are careful in your training as to not re-injure it you might be just fine.

[horse99]

Is Suspensory Injury Career Ending?

If I had a dollar for how many horses I see who have had a suspensory injury and are now back in work and are doing fine, I would be rich! This is one of the most common injuries that horses get. If they were all career ending, then most performance horses would be pasture ornaments and out of a job. Career ending- I would say more "career limiting." Yes it certainly can be career ending for some, it just depends on the degree of the tear/strain and position of the injury. I also think the re-hab is crucial that it is done properly and carefully for future prognosis. I would sit down with your vet and discuss your riding needs and get the vets opinion about this particular suspensory. No one has a crystal ball though, and sometimes you just take a gamble.

[striderrider]

I would not touch this horse with a ten foot pole. To me, the risk of re-injury is just too high. But, to answer your question, I think it depends. Like horse99 says, it depends on the severity of the injury in the first place...

[FEIJuniorBound]

Thanks for your answers. I decided to pass on this one only because my mom said we might be able to increase the budget. Wahoo!