Older endurance horse

[Lisa <lpopp@pa.net>]

Hello again!  I have an 18 yearold arab gelding that's been doing 
endurance/ctr for about 5 years.  Previous to me he was ridden by a 
young girl that *really* over conditioned him.  She always complained 
that he was thin and he "got tired" at the end of a ride.  I have a  
problem getting weight OFF of him and we have completed 25's and 50's 
with no problems, but slowly, usually 8-9 hours for a 50.  My question 
is, I am concerned that with all the hard and fast riding this young 
lady did with him, that he may start having some joint problems as he 
heads in his 20's and I'd like to keep him sound just as long as I can.  
He isn't having any problems now (other than needing to shed 100 
pounds!) and I'd like to keep it that way and still compete him for a 
few years.  Can anyone recommend a supplement that I can start him on 
now, before he starts having problems.  Glucosamnine/Chondroitin?  Or 
any other recommendations for older endurance horses?  I love this old 
boy and want to keep him sound, happy and competing !  We are finally 
able to start our spring conditioning and had a lovely ride today! 
Lisa and Razz (I'm not FAT, I'm FLUFFY!!)