Life with pets is always the best. Some pets can be taken care of with minimal effort, but others require knowledge, skill and patience. Besides regular grooming, exercise and visits to the vet, here are the things you should keep in mind to keep your horses happy and healthy.
Feed them right
Just like humans, a horse’s diet should be watched and monitored closely. Their digestive system can process huge amounts of grass, so their most basic diet is good quality hay, which is rich and fiber and water. The grass should be free from molds and dust, and there should be clean and unfrozen water available to them at all times.
There is a common notion that grains are better food than hay, but this is incorrect. Foals being fed with high carbs often develop bone and joint problems as well as muscle disorders.
You should also make sure that horses are properly dewormed and vaccinated. This should always be discussed with your veterinarian. Vaccines against sickness will be a big help to your horse, while parasites inside their bodies will be the worst of your problems.
Watch what they consume
The Animal Poison Control Center has compiled a list of leaves and plants that are poisonous to horses. Be sure to inspect and look closely at what you feed your horses, especially when you have taken them from the wild.
Some of the plants include wilted red leaves of maples, oak leaves, white snakeroot, richweed, jimmy weed, and blister bees that can be found in the alfalfa hay that your horses eat.
Use high-quality equipment
High quality does not mean expensive. You can have the best care for their hooves, for instance, by simply buying quality horseshoes and taking care of them by trimming every six to eight weeks. You should also use some high-quality ropes from Callaway, and make sure they are strong and long lasting.
Protect them
Living in box stalls and being isolated from other horses can create behavioral problems among these animals. Experts suggest having straight stalls for the horses.
You should also bear in mind that horses should be able to sweat to get rid of the heat buildup inside their bodies. When the heat becomes unbearable, it will be better for horses to stay in a shaded place where they can graze.
Horse’s teeth are their Achilles heels
A horse’s teeth will continue to grow as they do. If taken for granted, these will grow uneven and pointy at the edges, which can cause pain and difficulty in chewing. Generally, this will affect the horse’s health and performance.
Make sure that their teeth are checked once or twice a year. Some of the dental problems like painful and rotting teeth can lead to choking, weight loss or colic. Also, watch out for undigested hay on their stools, stinky breath, or discomfort when eating.
These guidelines may sound overwhelming, but once you get the hang of it, you will find taking care of your horses a fun and enjoyable thing.
