Pablo Luna
Horses are just marvelous creatures. They are fierce entertainers, companions, transporters, and much more. Considering all that they do, horses deserve the utmost care from their handlers or owners. Here are some tips you could borrow to take great care of your horses.
1. Feeding: Get Your Forage Right
To be in good health, the number one thing to watch is your diet. Well, the same case applies to horses and pretty much any animal you may consider domesticating. The pastures you feed your horse should comprise forage such as high-quality hay, ensuring that they get enough each day. Additionally, make sure that it has a constant supply of grains throughout the day.
The best thing about horses is that they have a simple digestive system just like us, unlike other farm animals (ruminants) whose digestive system is a bit more complex. For this reason, it is best to ensure a consistent feeding schedule to avoid digestion problems. As days go by, introduce new diets for your horse as you stick to a specific feeding program.
Also, horse feed should comprise a balanced diet of minerals, vitamins, starch, protein, fiber, and at least 7-8 gallons of water daily. The Forage Plus website highlights several balancer supplements you can provide your horse with, just to ensure they are getting all the required nutrients. If you visit the site, you will also discover a wide range of other feeds and supplement products to help boost equine health. These range from products for horses with joint issues to digestion promoters, breeding products, digestive health, and joint health supplements, among others.
2. Ensure Proper Grooming
Horses need care. The same respect we give the cats and dogs should be the same we provide our horses with. Have an area where you can do all the grooming to get ample time to touch and inspect your mare or stallion. Use a curry brush to avoid injuring the horse coat as you loosen the dirt. Most of the time, we are advised to use the flicking motion when grooming a horse because it clears all the dirt effectively. After that, use a body brush to smoothen the remaining hair. That will ensure any remaining hair and dirt is swept off. Use electric clippers to trim and make the horse look neat. Avoid using it on the face. Do not forget to clean the hooves and bathe the horse regularly.
3. Set Time for Bonding
Spending time with your horse will make you understand her better, and you will have all the time to learn about her personality. They hate rough people around them, so make sure that you approach your horse gently and calmly. Petting is considered a way of interacting, and it increases the bond and trust between the two of you. It will help you know its sensitive body parts. While you are out bonding, treat your horse to treats of apples and carrots… it helps them feel appreciated. Lastly, encourage neck drops- it is a way of communication, and it is a demonstration of submission and trust.
4. Ensure Training
Before you embark on training your horse, make sure that you follow the basic rules of training a horse. Basic rules like:
- Do not walk in front or behind your horse
- Always stand to his left at an angle
- Talk and touch your horse as you take walks
- Bend instead of crouching when checking her hooves
As you embark on training your horse, go slow. A step at a time will give your horse all the intended proper training. And while at it, be patient with your horse as you introduce and teach it new tricks every day. Stay put and cheerful. You will get there. Keep in mind that your communication should be in low tones to avoid miscommunication. Lastly, while training a horse, ensure that you and your equine friend are comfortable and at ease. This means investing in a comfortable saddle, along with quality horse accessories to prevent sores and injuries.
Finally, to keep your horse healthy, you have to schedule regular vet examinations. That will include physical and dental checks, among other things. It also means ensuring that the horse has enough room and time to lay in her stall. Also, get them a comfortable stall that protects them from extreme weather conditions. They need a clean, safe place to retire to when they need some rest. Don’t forget to create schedules for her to socialize with other horses.
