How to Keep your Horse Happy
Horses are incredibly sensitive and it is important that they get the care and attention they deserve. It’s not enough to only provide the bare necessities like food, shelter and whatever healthcare your horse insurance policy will cover. Like us, they also need to feel a bit special, and the little extra love will go a long way.
It’s best to keep your horse among other ponies or horses, as they are herd animals in nature and will need to have company. You should be also seen as part of their herd, ideally as the herd leader. A horse’s chewing or licking are both signs of affection and of sumbission to your status as leader. The development of trust and a lasting emotional bond with your horse relies on you spending quality time with your horse. When this is achieved, it will have a positive effect on all areas in the horse’s handling and riding.
Horses are clean animals, so ensure that their stable/stalls are clean and warm, with deep bedding. Providing deep bedding will help to protect your horse’s joints and legs as well as giving them a comfy and secure place to lie down.
Feeding your horse is obviously an important factor in equine care. As they will be grazing outside during the day, horses should be fed little and often. A balance of all appropriate foods should be incorporated into your horse’s diet. Grass, hay, and fibre in general is important for your horse’s digestive system. Grain is also superb, but not too much as it can upset the stomach. Ensure a supply of fresh water is available. Water allows the food to ferment so it doesn’t become solid and hard in the horse’s rear gut. The food regularity is also important, as they are best when in routines. Always feed your horse at the same time each day.
Your horse will enjoy the attention he gets from you when you are performing daily grooming routines. They will enjoy a good rub, proper brushing and a nice scratch. This part of the day should be enjoyed by you both. Grooming your horse will not only keep his coat glossy and smooth, but can also help to keep pests and parasites at bay. Not forgetting the feet – you’ll need to pick your horse’s hooves every daily. They must feel comfortable on their hooves or they will become grumpy, not to mention that failing to take care of your horse’s feet will put him at risk of injury or infection which could cost you a claim on your equine insurance.
Exercise is vital for a horse’s happiness. Daily exercise is essential for your horse. This should also be varied, include jumps and cross country as well as your standard routines. Play time is important for horses too. Turn them out so they can be free in their paddock. Your horse may want to play with the other horses, or simply hang out with them and relax. Let your horse relax as well as work – their behaviour can become erratic if they are not permitted just to chill out sometimes.
The above tips are just a few pieces of advice which can help you look after the physical and pscychological needs of your horse. For more information and to become part of a horse-lovers’ community on the world-wide web, please visit AFI Horse Insurance where you can read and contribute to our brand-new equine blog.
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