Looking After Horses

---

The bond between a horse and its owner is something truly special - forged through trust, respect, and a shared love of adventure. But with great companionship comes great responsibility. As a horse owner, it's essential to ensure your four-legged friend is well cared for and happy in their environment. Welcome to our comprehensive guide for looking after horses, where we'll cover everything from daily tasks to long-term care and provide insights that ensure the very best for your equine companion.

## Nutrition: Fuel for the Steed

We are what we eat, and the same goes for horses. Adequate nutrition is the backbone of a healthy, happy horse. They require a well-balanced diet that meets their energy, protein, vitamin, and mineral needs. The primary ingredient in a horse's diet should be forage, such as hay or pasture. Aim to provide 1.5-2% of their body weight in forage daily, depending on their activity levels and metabolism.

In addition to forage, horses may also require a concentrate feed, such as pellets or grains, especially for those with higher energy demands or limited access to high-quality hay. Always follow the recommendations from your veterinarian or equine nutritionist, and adjust feeding as needed based on your horse's age, weight, health, and exercise routine.

Don't forget about water - horses should have continuous access to clean, fresh water both in their stalls and outside in the pasture. A typical adult horse will consume between 5-10 gallons of water per day, and even more in hot or humid conditions.

## Grooming: More Than Just a Pretty Mane

Regular grooming is essential for your horse's well-being, and it's also a great one-on-one bonding opportunity. A good grooming routine should include daily brushing to remove dirt, sweat, and loose hair and helps evenly distribute natural oils. It also helps to identify any injuries or infections early on. Before and after each ride, be sure to lift and clean their hooves with a hoof pick - this helps prevent thrush, an infection that thrives in unclean and damp environments.

## Fitness and Health

Just like humans, horses need regular physical activity to stay healthy. Aim to exercise your horse through riding sessions, lunging, or turnout in a paddock. Be consistent and attentive to your horse's fitness and energy levels to prevent overwork or injury. In addition, it's essential to schedule regular veterinary check-ups, dental appointments, and vaccinations.

For example, Rachel, a new horse owner, noticed that her typically eager and energetic horse, Thunder, was struggling to finish their usual trail route. By paying attention to Thunder's change in energy levels, Rachel was able to consult with her veterinarian and determine that he needed a change in his diet and exercise routine to better match his age and workload.

## Shelter and Turnout: A Home to Roam

Horses should have access to shelter, whether it's a stable or a three-sided shelter in the pasture. Keep their living space clean by mucking out the stalls daily and removing any hazards or debris. Ample turnout time is crucial, as it allows horses to socialize, graze, and move freely outside of confinement. Strive for at least a few hours of turnout daily, weather permitting.

## Love and Connection: The Emotional Aspect

Physical care and proper surroundings are fundamental, but don't forget that horses thrive on love, attention, and companionship. Spend quality time with your equine friend, whether riding, grooming or just enjoying each other's company. Your horse is more likely to display positive behaviors and form a strong bond with you if you nurture that connection.

And with that, you're now equipped with the essentials of horse care, ready to dive into this rewarding journey alongside your marvelous equine companion. As you tend to your horse's needs, so too will your bond grow, forging an unforgettable partnership that lasts a lifetime. Be sure to share this guide with fellow horse enthusiasts and explore other resources on how to own a horse – for when it comes to caring for these magnificent creatures, there's always more to learn, more to love, and more adventures to share!