Learning the Basics of Horse Care
Whether you are considering your first horse or simply getting the next generation ready to care for these glorious animals, the basics of horse care are important to review. A horse needs many things in order to thrive and provide the companionship and sport that many horse owners are looking for. In short, horses need space to range, shelter and bedding for comfort and security, proper care in the form of food and grooming and quality equipment that will allow them both freedom and security.
Space to Range
Sometimes referred to as a pasture, horses need open space to stretch their legs and exercise. The general rule that applies is to ensure you have one acre of land for each horse. More is not a problem, but less can leave your horse bored and potentially unhealthy.
Be sure the area is free of poisonous plants (such as foxglove, privet and star thistle, to name only a few) and other dangers that could seriously harm your horse. Deep, hidden holes should be filled or blocked and a decently solid fence should be put up to keep your horses in. Avoid the use of barbed wire as it can seriously harm the animals and could lead to infection as well.
Shelter and Bedding
A stable is the most common form of shelter for horses and serves as a secure home for your family of horses. Be sure the building is in fact stable and that the area for each horse is supplied with fresh clean bedding regularly. Straw, wood shavings and hemp are all commonly used as bedding for horses in the UK.
Proper Health Care
Food is obviously important to provide for proper horse care. A good quality mixture of food supplied at the right times and in the right quantities will ensure your horse is fit for riding and whatever else you have in mind for the animal. Consult your vet to find out what the proper food and amount is based on each individual horse.
Grooming is vital to the health of your horse and should be taken seriously, if you are not committed to grooming your horse daily (or paying to have that done at a full care stable), you should reconsider the idea of owning a horse. Grooming a horse includes the care and cleaning of the hair, skin, hooves, eyes, nose and teeth of the horse. There are certain steps and products used for each of the different breeds, although many of the techniques are similar.
Horse Equipment
Having high quality equipment for horses is important as well. You need to have bridle work, turnouts and other horse equipment that are comfortable, made of high quality materials and dependable for years. This is generally an investment for first time horse owners, but well worth it in terms of the health and enjoyment of your horse.
Knowing the basics of horse care is essential for the health of your animal. When properly taken care of, a horse is one of the most glorious animal companions man has ever known.
Buy essential stable supplies online and have items such as equestrian boots, blankets and saddles delivered to your home for extra convenience and all the necessary kit for riding horses.
Processing your request, Please wait....
