If horse enthusiasts’ wildest dreams have come true for you, congratulations! You’re likely bursting with excitement at the prospect of sharing your life with a majestic equine companion. However, it’s normal to feel a bit overwhelmed by the sheer amount of information and responsibility that comes with horse ownership. To help alleviate any anxiety, I’ll be covering the fundamental aspects of caring for horses in this post.
You Got Yourself a Horse: Now What?
The foundation of horse care is built upon the bond between the equine and its caregiver. This connection supersedes all other aspects of horse ownership, necessitating a deep investment of time and attention. Ideally, the caregiver should strive to be as inseparable from their horse as possible, fostering an intuitive understanding that transcends words. In ancient cultures, this kind of symbiotic relationship was not uncommon.
People would dedicate themselves entirely to their horses, whether riding, grooming, or simply being present. This unwavering dedication gave rise to the mythological centaur, symbolizing a union so profound it blurred the lines between human and animal. This level of connection is not merely desirable, but essential. It requires an active and intentional presence, free from distractions. The caregiver must be fully immersed in the moment, engaging with their horse on a profound level.
This can only be achieved through repeated interactions throughout the day, allowing for a deepening trust and understanding to develop. If you’re unable or unwilling to commit to this kind of relationship, it may be worth considering whether a different type of animal is better suited to your lifestyle.
Feeding
Horses, cows, sheep, and rabbits are classified as grazers, consuming food continuously throughout the day. As a result, their dietary needs can be substantial. On average, horses require around 2% of their body weight in forage daily, which includes hay and other dry roughages like grass and cereal grains. Hay should form the foundation of their diet, with an average-sized horse needing approximately 20 pounds of it each day.
In addition to grain, some equine owners supplement their horses’ diets with beet pulp and a mix of vitamins and minerals. When selecting hay for your horse, you can opt for a combination of alfalfa and Timothy hay. However, there are numerous other options available, including orchardgrass and oat hay. Some horse owners also prepare mashes as an additional dietary supplement.
Before making any changes to your horse’s diet, it is essential to consult with a veterinarian to ensure the mash does not exacerbate any underlying digestive issues. Like all individuals, horses can experience food sensitivities, which may lead to gastrointestinal (GI) issues. Their digestive systems are sensitive, and what might be tolerated by one horse could cause discomfort or even life-threatening complications in another.
It is crucial to monitor your horse’s health closely and seek veterinary attention promptly if you notice any signs of a GI slowdown. Untreated tummy issues can be deadly for horses, as they are unable to vomit. To ensure the overall well-being of your equine companion, provide a reliable source of salt and minerals by offering a salt lick. For more detailed guidance on feeding your horse, refer to our comprehensive guide.
Water
Horses are thirsty creatures that require a significant amount of drinking water daily. On average, they can consume between six to 15 gallons of water each day, and this demand may increase significantly if they’re engaged in physical activity or exposed to hot weather conditions.
Providing horses with access to fresh, clean drinking water is crucial, and there are various options available, including troughs that need to be refilled, automatic waterers, buckets, canals, and underwater pipes that feed ponds. Regardless of the method chosen, it’s essential to check on the water source at least once a day, with more frequent checks required if using buckets.
In colder climates, it’s vital to ensure that the water source doesn’t freeze, and heated horse troughs or alternative solutions can be employed to prevent this issue. Furthermore, testing the water periodically is necessary to guarantee its cleanliness and absence of contaminants.
Provide Shelter
When it comes to providing shelter for your horse, there are various options to consider. For equestrian enthusiasts who ride frequently or daily, stabling is often the preferred choice, as it helps prevent injuries and keeps their horses clean. On the other hand, horse owners who don’t ride as regularly may opt for outdoor housing, where their equine companions can enjoy the fresh air and freedom.
Regardless of your approach, it’s essential to create a safe and sanitary space that shields your horse from the elements.
Indoor Shelter
When it comes to designing a stall for your average horse, a size of 10-12 square feet is generally suitable. However, larger breeds such as Clydesdales may require more space. Ultimately, the key is providing enough room for your horse to comfortably turn around and lie down, with ample bedding for warmth and comfort. A ceiling height of at least 10-12 feet, accompanied by a spacious doorway of around 10×8 feet, will ensure a pleasant environment.
In terms of stable layout, having at least two stalls is highly recommended if you have only one horse. This allows for easy movement between enclosures for care and maintenance, as well as ensuring the horse’s safety. If predators such as wildcats are present in your area, it’s crucial to keep the stable close to the house and protect it effectively with double-fencing, particularly if the outer fence is cat-proofed and electrified. Adequate bedding is essential for each stall.
While straw was once a popular choice, many horse owners have shifted towards more absorbent options like pellets or wood shavings due to their ease of use. Daily maintenance of your horses’ stalls is crucial. This involves ‘mucking out’ the stall by removing poop and soiled bedding with a shovel, transferring the horse between enclosures as needed. If you don’t have a second stall available, consider turning them out into a field or tying them up in crossties while you work.
Once completed, ensure the stall is thoroughly cleaned before replenishing it with fresh bedding and returning your horse to their enclosure. Consistent checks on your horses are vital to guaranteeing their well-being. As they cannot communicate in human language, it’s up to you to monitor their health and detect any potential issues early.
Outdoor Shelter
When housing horses outdoors full-time, it’s essential to provide them with a suitable shelter that can serve as a refuge from inclement weather conditions like rain, snow, and strong winds. A larger structure than a standard stall is required, featuring an open design on one side and closed facades on the other three sides. Strategically position this shelter so that it faces away from western exposure, allowing your horse to seek shade during the hottest part of the day.
Alternatively, you can construct a second shelter oriented in the opposite direction, giving your horse the freedom to choose their preferred option. The location of your shelter also depends on your specific environment, such as the size of your paddock or pasture. For larger areas, consider installing a run-in shelter at the opposing end to offer additional comfort and protection.
Pasture for Exercise (and to Avoid Going Stir Crazy)
When it comes to providing for your horse’s physical and mental well-being, creating a safe and welcoming outdoor space is crucial. A well-maintained pasture or paddock area should be free from hazards like old machinery, scrap metal, and other potentially harmful items that can cause injuries. Horses love to roll around in the grass, but sharp objects buried beneath the surface can cause serious harm, so it’s essential to ensure the entire area is clean and well-kept.
Familiarize yourself with plants that are toxic to horses and take steps to keep them out of reach. A horse that has been stabled for too long may develop undesirable habits like chewing its gate, which can be a sign that it needs more exercise. In fact, this behavior is often referred to as cribbing or aerophagia, an obsessive-compulsive behavior that can arise from boredom and confinement.
If your horse is engaging in these behaviors, it’s likely a sign that it needs to spend more time outdoors. If it’s cold outside, make sure your horse has a good coat and adequate shelter before letting it out to pasture. The benefits of fresh air, exercise, and mental stimulation will be evident as your horse becomes happier and healthier. When walking or riding your horse to the stable or barn, try to maintain a lively pace with encouraging words and phrases.
This can help associate the return home with positive feelings, making your horse more eager to go back inside.
Hygiene
After a horse has been running or working hard, it’s essential to give them a thorough cleaning and brushing. If the weather is chilly, consider wrapping them in a blanket for added warmth. However, never place a blanket on a hot and sweaty horse, as this can lead to cold-induced harm. For more guidance on blanketing, consult our comprehensive guide. Daily hoof inspections are crucial, allowing you to detect any debris accumulation or potential injuries like cuts or splits.
Some owners opt not to shoe their horses, while others believe it’s necessary for certain activities, such as cross-country riding or jumping. It’s essential to discuss your horse’s needs with a qualified farrier and consider their lifestyle. While there are numerous resources available on equine hoof care, the key is regular attention.
Take the time to educate yourself on proper foot maintenance and develop a strong rapport with your farrier to ensure seamless coordination for filing and upkeep.
Companionship
While the importance of socialization in horse care is often overlooked, it’s essential for equine happiness. Horses are herd animals that thrive when they have companionship. If possible, having multiple horses can be incredibly beneficial. However, if you can only have one, consider introducing other animals to provide company. Goats, ponies, donkeys, and even dogs can all make great companions. For further insight, explore our comprehensive guide to horse companionship.
Spend quality time with your horse, engaging in activities that strengthen your bond. Additionally, it’s crucial to continually expand your knowledge of horse care. Our initial discussion has merely scratched the surface. Delve deeper by reading widely, learning from experienced equestrian professionals, and seeking opportunities to live among horses. This will allow you to develop your own unique approach to horse care. A key takeaway is that there’s always more to learn about horses.
Despite their similarities in basic needs, every equine is distinct, with nuances that require careful consideration. It’s a lifelong journey of discovery, one that can span decades without exhausting the wealth of knowledge available. Above all, cultivate a deep affection for your horse, treating it as an extension of your own being.
