Everyone has a different opinion on whether any horse "requires" bodywork, but let's reframe it and pose this question - can a horse benefit from bodywork even if they "don't do much"? That I can confidently answer with a resounding yes!
A large percentage of the horses I see as an Equine Therapist are recreational horses, retired, or not ridden. That is surprising to some, but many horse stewards recognize that their horse's quality of life improves when they receive bodywork. I have learned that many recreational horse owners are extremely dedicated to the health of their horses. One does not need to be a competitive rider to want their horse to move with freedom, confidence, and comfort, to have a resilient musculoskeletal and nervous system, and to enjoy therapeutic touch.
Many horse stewards are also realizing that preventative bodywork is extremely helpful not only for aiding in the maintenance of a healthy and resilient horse less prone to injury, but for catching potential issues early on. The appropriate care, or service from other equine professionals, can then be carried out before a small issue becomes expensive, painful or debilitating.
I'm often the first person to catch lameness, muscle atrophy, pain from hoof or tack issues, or even heightened stress. Listening to these subtle changes in the horse's body can lead to earlier diagnosis from your vet of illness or injury, earlier intervention to correct hoof issues, nutritional imbalances, and tack fit, and help you to recognize when your horse requires a change in their lifestyle or management to preserve their health and happiness.
Thank you to Sheila for the photo!