Having a horse is a great responsibility and requires a lot of care and attention. Taking proper care of your horse is essential to their health and well-being, which is why it’s important to be familiar with the best practices when it comes to horse care. In this blog post, we’ll provide you with 10 ways that you can take better care of your horse, from making sure they are getting the right nutrition to providing them with regular exercise and even spending quality time with them. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced horse owner, these tips will help ensure your horse is healthy and happy.
1) Check their hooves regularly
It is important to check a horse’s hooves often to ensure they are free of rocks, dirt, and debris. This helps to prevent foot injuries and discomfort for the horse. Also, be sure to trim their hooves regularly to keep them healthy. This should be done by a professional farrier. Additionally, look out for signs of lameness and always provide plenty of clean and dry bedding for them.
2) Keep them well-fed and hydrated
Horses need a balanced diet to stay healthy. Ensure your horse has access to good quality hay and feed, and give them plenty of fresh water. Monitor their weight and adjust their feed accordingly. Check their food and water supplies regularly to ensure they are receiving enough.
3) Keep them clean
Grooming your horse regularly is important for their health and well-being. Brushing them, cleaning hooves, and removing any dirt or debris from the coat can help keep them healthy. Bathing your horse should also be done regularly to keep them looking and feeling their best. For a horse that lives outdoors, it is best to bathe them every few weeks in the warmer months and every month or two in the winter.
4) Get them vaccinated
Vaccinating your horse is important to protect them from certain diseases. Make sure they are up to date on their shots and get booster shots as needed. Talk to your vet about which vaccines are best for your horse. You should also talk to your vet about which deworming regimen is best for your horse.
5) Keep them exercised
Routine exercise is key for maintaining a horse’s health. Aim to provide your horse with daily exercise, like a short walk or even a leisurely ride. This helps keep their muscles strong and healthy, as well as their mental wellbeing. It’s important to not over-exercise your horse, however, as that can cause just as many issues as not exercising them enough.
6) Keep them cool in summer and warm in winter
Make sure your horse has access to shade and plenty of water in the summer months. In the winter, make sure to keep them warm with blankets and a shelter to protect them from the cold. Regular grooming is also important for their coat and skin health. Their hooves should also be taken care of, with regular trimmings and cleanings.
7) Keep them socialized
Horses are social creatures and need contact with other horses and people to remain happy and healthy. Take time to spend with your horse, providing treats or just spending time in their company. This will help keep them mentally stimulated and less stressed. You should also make sure they get enough time with other horses, whether at the stable or while riding outdoors.
8) Protect them from predators
Make sure your horse’s environment is secure and free from potential predators. Install fences and locks to keep out large animals, and use motion activated lights or alarms if necessary. Also, be sure to check in on your horse regularly. It’s important to get familiar with their behavior so that you can notice any changes early on. If possible, install a video monitoring system so that you can have extra peace of mind when you are away from home.
9) Keep them free from parasites
Check for parasites regularly and treat if necessary. Make sure to use a dewormer approved for horses and always follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Keep your horse away from areas with high levels of infestation. Monitor your horse’s fecal consistency and look out for any signs of illness or weight loss.
10) Train them well
Train your horse regularly to stay in shape and develop strong muscles. Start with simple commands like ‘walk’, ‘trot’, and ‘halt’ before progressing to more complex exercises. Always use positive reinforcement, rewards, and patience during training. Create a bond with your horse by brushing and talking to them often.