by Mary Knetter

Created on: May 07, 2008   Last Updated: June 25, 2009

There are many theories on how to keep a horse healthy, many of which are steeped in tradition. But to keep a horse healthy one only needs to look to the horse for what it needs. Study the needs of horses in the wild and you'll understand some of the basic needs of domesticated horses. With a few man-made adjustments, keeping a horse is simple.

1. A LITTLE BIT EVERY DAY

Daily care is the best way to ensure your horse's health in the long run. Clean out stalls and paddocks of manure and urine to ensure clean bedding and fresh air. Urine and manure create ammonia that can be toxic if left in small enclosures like a horse's stall.

Also, check the weather every day. Most horses can stay out year-round with a run-in shelter. If the weather is extremely cold, windy or wet, horses should be brought in from the elements.

Some horses also do better with blankets in cold weather. Not all horses need blankets in winter as their winter coat and fat reserves should keep them warm enough. Light-skinned or clipped horses require blankets for turnout and kept inside during inclement weather.

2. ONCE A YEAR

Just like it is important for you to have a yearly physical, it is important to your horse also. Talk to your veterinarian about having an annual exam. The vet will listen to the horse's lungs, heart and gut as well as inspect the teeth, eyes and reproductive organs if needed. They will also feel the legs, joints and may do a lameness exam.

Your veterinarian is trained to find problems early. He or she might also notice differences in the horse's body condition that you may not have seen because you see the horse every day. Also, having your vet out for a visit when your horse is not sick allows the two of you to maintain a relationship and establish what is considered "normal" for your horse's health before problems arise.

The yearly exam is also the time where you can establish a worming and vaccination schedule with your veterinarian. Your vet doesn't need to administer the medications, but can consult you on the best methods and medications to use for your needs and geographic area.

3. THE HORSE'S MOUTH

Have your horse's teeth checked annually by a veterinarian or trained equine dentist. Older horses may need dental attention more often. A trained professional can find sharp areas in the horse's mouth and file them down before they cause problems. They will also find uneven wear patterns on the horse's teeth and straighten them out.

Healthy teeth, especially in older horses that

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