Dr. Chris Mortensen discusses the factors contributing to the longevity of horses and shares strategies for extending their lives. The episode begins with a tribute to Rosie, an American quarter horse who lived to 36, showcasing the potential for horses to live well past their expected lifespan with proper care. Dr. Mortensen addresses the advancements in equine healthcare, nutrition, and management that have increased horses' lifespan from historical norms. He explores the current life expectancy of domestic and wild horses, the impact of breed on longevity, and the remarkable story of Old Billy, a horse that lived to 62. The podcast emphasizes the importance of diet, exercise, dental care, hoof care, regular vet exams, stress reduction, and management of conditions like arthritis and PPID (Cushing's Disease) in supporting the health and longevity of horses. Dr. Mortensen also discusses new research on aging, including telomere regulation, and concludes with acknowledgments and encouragement for equine caregivers. Podcast Timeline 00:00 Welcome and the Impact of Sharing Equine Stories 00:22 The Life and Legacy of Scotch Time Rose (Rosie) 4:27 Introducing Dr. Chris Mortensen: Equine Scientist and Educator 05:25 The Remarkable Longevity of Horses: Insights and Statistics 14:32 Old Billy: The Horse That Lived to 62 21:21 Managing Geriatric Horses: Challenges and Solutions 28:33 Unlocking the Secrets of Equine Nutrition 31:02 The Obesity Epidemic in Horses: A Growing Concern 34:41 The Importance of Dental Care for Horses 37:02 Comprehensive Health Care: From Hoof to Vaccination 38:52 Stress and Its Impact on Equine Health 40:50 Exploring the Science of Aging in Horses 44:39 Understanding and Managing Cushing's Disease in Horses 47:31 Welfare and Stress Reduction: Keys to Longevity 51:09 Final Thoughts and Gratitude Visit https://madbarn.com/mad-about-horses/ to learn more about the Mad About Horses podcast.  --------------------------------- Mad Barn Academy is dedicated to supporting horse owners, handlers and practitioners through research, training and education. Visit us to learn more at ⁠⁠https://madbarn.com ⁠⁠ You can also find Mad Barn at: ⁠ Instagram ⁠⁠@madbarnequine⁠ ⁠⁠ Facebook ⁠⁠@madbarnequine⁠⁠ TikTok ⁠⁠@madbarnequine⁠⁠ ⁠YouTube⁠⁠ @madbarn ⁠⁠ We would love to hear from you! Please send any questions or comments to ⁠[email protected]