Exercising the PSSM type 1 Horse

A horse with PSSM type 1 needs movement to constantly burn up as much glycogen as possible to prevent it from accumulating in the muscles. Exercise also optimizes muscle condition in general, making the horse less prone to a tying-up. A horse going through an acute episode of tying-up needs to stop moving, but a prolonged period of rest after an episode of tying-up is usually counter productive and makes the horse more susceptible to a new episode. As soon as the acute phase has passed, the horse should be moved to a small paddock, where it can move around if it chooses to. When free voluntary movement has returned to normal, the horse benefits from a big enough space to  move around freely in all gaits for as many hours a day as possible. Adding companions stimulates extra movement and is therefore encouraged. Stress levels should be kept as low as possible.

Once the horse is used to the new diet (this usually takes about two weeks), exercise can be re-introduced slowly. The duration of training is more important than its intensity. Five minutes of walk is enough for the first few days, after which two minutes can be added each day. After a few days of doing that, assess if one minute of trot can be added to the schedule. If the horse takes well to that, one minute of trot can be added each day. Once the horse tolerates being exercised at a walk and trot for 15 minutes, a 5 minute walk can be introduced before the next interval of walk and trot. It usually takes about three weeks before the lope or gallop can be re-introduced. Training needs to be built up slowly and consistently. It is important the horse is exercised every day; rest days should be avoided if possible. Horses with PSSM type 1 need extensive warming-ups and cooling-downs.

These are just guidelines and what works may vary per horse. Adjustments should be made based on how the horse progresses through training.

Getting everything right for a horse with PSSM type 1 can be time consuming, frustrating and expensive. A well-managed horse can be a very rewarding outcome, but the dedication to its management is something to keep into account when considering buying a horse with PSSM type 1.