To jump or not to jump?

It sounds like he could jump very well. I have a 12 year old gelding that foundered to the point of having to be put down and now (6 months later) we are once again jumping 3' courses with ease. If he can jump on the lunge and stay sound and trot over poles without any side affects, than my advice is go for it! If you see any possible signs of lameness, just let him rest a day or two, gently building up over time.

It depends what sort of damage he had and how high and often you want to jump him. Mild tendon damage could allow him to jump a little bit (like what I'm guessing you are doing iwth him on the lunge). More severe damage or damage to the suspensory ligaments would probably keep him from doing much jumping at all. I would talk to the vet and get their opinion since you don't seem to be able to give us all the medical details

It really depends on what was wrong with his legs in the first place. The takeoff requires rear muscle but the impact is on the front legs when landing. Talk to your vet and see what they think. If you do start start small with cavalettis and make sure to examine him closely afterwards for any signs of heat discomfort or swelling. I had a horse completely rupture his lateral collateral ligament (it holds the front fetlock joint together) and after a lot of hard work on my part he eventually turned out fine and went back to jumping 3ft when the vets wanted to put him down. I found one willing to help me though he said he may be lame for the rest of his life he would not be in pain and we went for it. (he was his by a car too)

The only way to know if he can do it is to just do it and keep a close watch over him. Injuries heal over many years. Consult a vet if you have concerns. I would be concerned if he showed any lameness, heat, inflammation, or behavior issues. If not, I don't see what is stopping you from trying. You can always back off if he cannot tolerate it.

I would get him checked by a vet, and ask what they think. You could work him up to it, try raised trotting poles first, and go up slowly.

It would help to know what damage was caused to his legs.

But I think your best bet would be to get him checked over by a vet to get the all clear.

x

What do you mean by damaged? It would be easier to say if we knew what harm was done to him.

Start out just doing a tiny jump now and then and get someone experienced to watch him jumping and tell you if he looks like he's in pain or uncomfortable and if he's not then gradually increase the extent of jumping from there.

It would best to have him examined thoroughly by a vet and it confirmed as to whether he'd be suitable for jumping or not before you decide to introduce him to it.

You should check with a vet.

good idea!