by Charlotte Howard

Created on: January 22, 2011

Owning a horse is an enjoyable experience that a lot of riders can only dream of due to the expense and time that a horse takes up.  However, if you are lucky enough to own, loan or even just help to look after a horse or pony, there are some horse care tips that everyone should be aware of.

Diet

There are many different kinds of feed and diet available for horses, but it is important that you choose one that is related to the type of work done.  For example a racehorse should be fed a diet high in carbohydrates, while a companion-pony who does not do much in the way of work needs a diet that is low in fats.

Hay and other long-stemmed fibers such as grass and alfalfa should make up a large proportion of the horse’s diet.  Poor-quality forages contain a lot of dust, which can be hazardous to horses especially those with respiratory diseases such as COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease), so it is a good idea to make sure that hay is soaked and drained before being given to the horse.  In the cases of COPD, an alternative to hay, like haylage is often advisable.

It is also vital that horses have access to fresh water at all times.  The average horse can consume up to 12 gallons of water in one day. 

When a horse is fed the incorrect diet or not given enough water, they are at a higher risk of coming down with painful and in some cases life threatening ailments, such as colic. 

Exercise

Exercise is an important part of a healthy lifestyle.  Not only does it reduce the chance of obesity, but it also helps to keep the joints flexing, and improves circulation meaning that the major organs like the heart and lungs are also kept healthy.

As a general rule, horses are classed as ‘flight’ creatures, meaning they will run away from danger.  This means that they are naturally good at keeping up a steady pace for at least a couple of miles.  However, you should never just take a horse out and work it.  It is important to make sure they warm up correctly, using gently exercises, before working, and cooling down using similar exercises before being put to rest.

It is also advisable to make sure that your horse is wearing the correct ‘clothes’ for the type of work being done, as well as afterwards.  An ill-fitting saddle can cause serious back problems, and saddles should be re-fitted at least every 2 years as the horse’s shape changes.

Grooming

Grooming is an important part

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