Horses are social animals, and as an owner or a horse enthusiast, you might find yourself wanting to keep several together. But caring for 15 horses together is no easy task. In this guide, we will share everything you need to know about managing multiple horses in a group setting. From housing and feeding to social dynamics and exercise routines, learn the tips and tricks that will ensure harmony among your equine friends. If you are ready to embark on the exciting journey of group horse management, read on and discover the key pointers to make your experience enjoyable and successful.
15 Horses Together Table of Contents
1. Adequate Space and Shelter
The first consideration in managing multiple horses is to provide ample space for them to move and interact freely. A general rule of thumb is to allocate at least one acre of land per horse – so for 15 horses together, you'll need a space of around 15 acres or more. Make sure space includes pastures for grazing, walking, and running; free access to fresh water sources and secure shelters to protect your horses from harsh weather conditions and predators.
2. Understand Each Horse's Individual Needs
While managing a group of horses, it is essential to understand and cater to each horse's unique needs. Some horses may need special diets, elder horses might require unique care, and newbies will need time to adapt to the environment. Paying attention to each horse will ensure their overall health and well-being.
3. Establish a Feeding Program
Feeding multiple horses in a group might make some dominant ones consume more than their share while submissive horses miss out. To avoid this, consider establishing a feeding routine that involves individual feeding spaces, feeding schedules, and providing slow feeder hay nets or automatic hay feeders to avoid overeating or bullying among horses.
4. Monitor Social Dynamics
Horses develop relationships and hierarchies over time, and as a horse owner, it's crucial to keep an eye on their interactions. A dominant horse might bully a more submissive one, causing stress among the group. Make sure you intervene and provide the necessary adjustments to promote a harmonious environment for your horses.
5. Preventive Health Measures
When housing 15 horses together, maintaining proper hygiene and addressing potential health issues becomes even more critical. Implement a regular deworming and vaccination schedule for all the horses and ensure that they have a reliable hoof care routine. Stay vigilant for any signs of illness or injuries and involve professional veterinarians for medical assistance when needed.
6. Exercise and Training
Keeping your horses physically active is essential for their health and well-being. Make sure to schedule regular exercise routines for each horse, including riding, lunging, groundwork, or using a horse walker. Doing so will help your horses stay physically and mentally stimulated.
15 Horses Together Example
Let's imagine you have created a horse boarding facility for 15 horses, including 10 boarders and five personal riding horses. The facility consists of 20 acres of land, a main barn with 15 individual stalls, three large pastures, an arena for riding, and walking trails. Each horse has its feed program and daily exercise routine, and the facility manager ensures social dynamics are consistently monitored. The horses are provided with scheduled routine health check-ups under the supervision of an experienced equine veterinarian.
Congratulations! You have successfully learned the key aspects of managing 15 horses together. Group horse management is an exciting, adventurous, and mutually rewarding journey when you create an environment that promotes learning, growth, and companionship. So, what are you waiting for? Incorporate these valuable tips into your horse group management efforts and, most importantly, always engage with and learn more from your equine friends.
Do you find this guide helpful? Feel free to share this post with your fellow horse enthusiasts, and don't forget to explore our other essential guides available on How to Own a Horse.
