General Horse Care Tips

Let’s face it, horses are some seriously high maintenance animals.

There is no end to the amount of work and cost involved. This section is devoted to general care tips – yours, mine – anyone with a good tip should feel free tocontribute.

These categories are generalized, but really the most important to consider and remember.

Lodging

Horses are creatures of habit and heard because of this they need to feel safe, keep company & have routine.

An ideal home is one that has lots of outside space an inside shelter for eating, sleeping and protection and a regular feeding schedule.

Selecting lodging can be a difficult task, but one well worth the research if you can’t keep them at home.

Equipment

Although it may seem like a secondary condition, it is impossible to manage a horse without equipment.

Things like halters, helmets and hoof picks cannot be overlooked. Keep a list of important essentials to be sure you’ve got everything.

Finding good deals and learning to care for your equipment will help you get your moneys worth.

Feeding

A nutritionally balanced diet & regular feeding times are essential building blocks for a healthy animal.

Feeding as organic, sustainable and GM & chemical-free as possible is the best for your horse. Ideally with the ability to graze through the day.

Feed is expensive, but your horse is priceless and filling them with good fuel will keep everyone happier.

Riding

Although some of us take on companion animals, the main purpose of getting a horse is to ride it.

Taking lessons & learning techniques in your chosen discipline will make riding more enjoyable. Group lessons are a good way so socialize.

Most boarding stables offer lessons and training of some sort, friendly barn-mates can be helpful too.

Grooming

An often overlooked but incredibly important part of horse care. Especially when it comes to hooves.

This doesn’t require elaborate bathing routines. A quick curry, brush and hoof cleaning is sufficient for hard hooves and shiny coat.

This is also a chance to spend time with your animal, horses bond by grooming each other in the wild.

Foot Care

Horses stand on their feet 90% of the time, they need to be well-balanced, well-trimmed and well-shod.

Beyond basic daily cleaning your horse needs to be seen by a farrier every 6-8 weeks – shoes or not. Healthy feet mean fewer injuries & sound legs.

Finding a good farrier is difficult, but there are good prospects out there. Use referrals to help you look.

Vet Care

It is vital that you keep a vet on hand for routine preventative care as well as or emergencies and lameness.

By domesticating horses we’ve changed their lifestyle. Proper vet care helps to keep your animal as healthy and sound as they should be.

Stick with one if possible, the more familiar a doctor is with your horse the better they can help them.