Surviving and thriving—these are two different concepts in terms of horse care. As a horse owner, you may be well aware that simply providing for the basic survival needs of your equine friend isn't enough. After all, the ultimate aim is to ensure that your horse leads a happy, healthy, and fulfilling life. In this comprehensive guide on what horses need to survive, we'll delve into the key elements essential for proper horse and pony care.
What Do Horses Need To Survive Table of Contents
Nutrition
Providing a nutritious and balanced diet to your horse is of utmost importance. Horses require six classes of nutrients—water, carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals—to maintain optimal health.
Water
A hydrated horse is a happy horse. Keep water readily available to your horse at all times. The exact amount a horse drinks can vary depending on factors like weather, activity level, and diet, but in general, they consume between 5-15 gallons daily.
Carbohydrates and Fats
These provide energy to your horse, helping them maintain their work, travel, and keep their muscular systems in check. Horses primarily consume carbohydrates through forage, like hay or grass, and may also benefit from supplements and grain sources for additional energy.
Proteins
These are essential for growth and maintenance of tissues, organs, and muscles. Horses can acquire the necessary amino acids through legumes, such as alfalfa or soybeans.
Vitamins and Minerals
A balanced diet is key to supporting a horse's immune system, bone health, and overall wellbeing. They can get these nutrients from good quality forage, but may require supplements to meet their unique needs.
Consulting with an equine nutritionist to tailor a diet plan for your horse, evaluating the quality of forage, and monitoring weight and body condition are important steps to keep their nutritional needs met.
Shelter and Protection
Horses need protection from inclement weather, such as extreme heat, cold, wind, and rain. A well-built shelter should offer adequate room for horses to move and lie down comfortably. It should also be adequately ventilated and maintained to ensure cleanliness and safety. Proper pasture management, including regular clean-ups, parasite control, and routine fence checks, will offer additional security.
Regular Exercise and Socialization
Daily turnout in pastures allows horses to roam, graze, and socialize—essential activities that promote psychological and physical wellness. Horses are herd animals, and socializing with others prevents them from developing behavioral issues. Observe your horse's turnout time and interaction with fellow horses, adjusting the environment accordingly. Plan for various forms of exercise, like hand-walking, longeing, or riding, based on your horse's individual needs.
Healthcare
Routine healthcare for horses includes vaccinations, deworming, dental care, and periodic check-ups by a veterinarian. Maintain accurate records of your horse's health and track any changes in their appearance, behavior, or performance. Early detection of potential issues aids in prompt treatment interventions.
What Do Horses Need To Survive Example
Meet Star, a young, energetic mare that you've just adopted. To provide her with the best care and ensure she thrives in her new home, you must establish a balanced diet suited for her age and workload. Working with an equine nutritionist, you offer her high-quality hay, grain, and supplements to support her development and energy needs. Star is provided with a well-maintained shelter that keeps her protected from the elements, and she enjoys daily turnout with her newfound equine friends for socialization and exercise. Finally, you work with your veterinarian to devise a healthcare plan for vaccinations, dental care, and periodic checkups to ensure Star remains in optimal health.
In conclusion, a horse's overall wellbeing depends on proper nutrition, shelter, exercise, socialization, and healthcare—all crucial components of horse and pony care. By understanding and meeting these needs, your horse won't just survive; they will thrive in their environment. If you found our guide helpful, please share it with fellow horse enthusiasts and check out our other guides on How to Own a Horse!
