5 Tips on How to Maintain Your Horse
Horses are magnificent creatures that are beautiful to admire, and owning these animals requires care. These companion animals are far different from your regular pets like cats or dogs, and the commitment required is much higher. You will also need the finance to maintain them well with your attention.
If you take ownership of a horse for the first time, you may have several doubts about what to do and how to take care of them. Once you understand your role in taking care of their health needs, both of you will be able to interpret each other better. If you are interested in breeding your horse, read this guide on how do horses mate to understand them better.
To help you get started, we have listed some essential tips that will help you maintain a horse.
Daily Nutrition
Like any other companion, horses, too, need a proper diet to stay strong and healthy. Roughage is the most important requirement that every horse needs, so make sure that they get the right type of hay or grass regularly.
Make sure you choose quality hay because some of the inferior ones may be toxic and cause health problems. If your horse requires certain supplements that the vet prescribes, then make sure you give them on time. Additionally, you can reward them with treats like apples, carrots, and so on, which will be good for their health.
Grooming
Grooming is another important routine that you need to conduct on your horse. Your horse must get groomed regularly to improve blood circulation in the body. Additionally, grooming will also remove dust, mud, and dirt that may be present and keep their fur clear from insects.
Make sure you have the right tools, such as a mane brush, rubber comb, face brush, trimmer, and so on. This is also an excellent bonding time where you spend time with your horse and build a relationship together. If you do not know what to do, get help from someone with experience so that you give the horse the proper care it deserves.
Clean the Stable
The next thing you need to do is ensure that the stable is clean and maintains good hygiene. By keeping the environment clean so that it will not form a ground for insects to thrive in. This could lead to an infection or, worse, to a disease. Make sure you clean the stall at least once a day so they can rest quite easily.
Also, make sure that the bedding used is washed and cleaned, as it will get dirty from time to time because of food, urine, or even dust which can cause health concerns for your animal. If needed, use infectants or bug sprays to add further protection for your horse and keep the stable clean.
Foot Care
The hooves are one of a horse’s most essential body parts, so you need to take care of them. The hooves are similar to toenails, and if you do not take care of them regularly, it can affect their balance and weight distribution. Make sure that you clean and trim them every 4-8 weeks so that they do not damage your horse’s feet.
If you do not know how to clean or trim the hooves, you can call a farrier. They are professionals trained for this very reason which will reduce your work. Some owners may choose to give their horseshoes but remember, not every animal needs them.
Essential Accessories for Horse Well-Being
Ensuring the well-being of horses involves the use of key accessories, among which headcollars play an important role. Headcollars for your horse provide control and safety during handling, grooming, and veterinary care. In addition to headcollars, saddle pads are essential accessories that contribute to a horse’s comfort during riding. Saddle pads provide cushioning and help distribute the pressure from the saddle, preventing discomfort and potential issues. Rugs are equally important, especially in varying weather conditions, offering warmth and protection from the elements.
Remember that maintaining the health and happiness of your horse needs to be a priority for you.
Regular Vet Checks
Another important tip that we have to give you is to make mandatory vet visits. By doing so, your horse’s health will be up to date, and if any concerns arise, you can further investigate and start treatment. It is another way to improve the quality of life and help your horse stay healthy.
Ensure your horse is vaccinated and dewormed so it does not lead to diseases like Rabies or Rhinopneumonitis. No matter what you do, never miss your regular health check at the vet. Lastly, dental care is also an important aspect that you need to consider. Tooth decay and gingivitis are common amongst horses, so keep an eye out for any kind of discomfort.
Final Words
These are just some basic tips that will help you take care of your horse. Keep in mind that as much as physical health is important, it will also benefit the horse’s mental health.
Also, look out for warning signs such as a change in appetite, repetitive movements, resistance to the regular routine, sleep deprivation, and so on. This detailed guide will help you understand everything you need to know about horses so that you can prepare yourself well.
