Wednesday, October 9, 2013

The Importance Of Horse Care

By Susan Weathers


Horses are just like any other pet. They have basic needs for shelter, food, water, and exercise. Practicing proper horse care is the best way to ensure the animal lives a long, happy, and healthy life.

Animals living on a ranch or farm are often working during daylight hours. This usually provides them with enough exercise to stay healthy. Some owners keep horses as pets and will ride them only occasionally. These animals are at risk of gaining weight if they are not active enough. They may require a modified diet to make up for the lack of activity.

Most horses will need approximately one acre of pasture to roam around for exercise. Owners should always inspect the pasture before leaving their animal alone. Holes in the fence, trash, and other hazards can put horses at risk of injury. Plants that are poisonous include oak leaves, deadly nightshade, foxglove, yew, laurel, star thistle, locoweed, and buttercups, among others.

A sturdy fence around the pasture will keep other animals out while confining horses to a safe place with the right polocrosse equipment. A simple wire fence attached to strong wood posts is a suitable option. Wood rail fences are attractive and sturdy but can be time consuming and expensive to maintain. Never use barbed wire because it can inflict injuries.

A strong shelter provides animals with the protection they need against rain, wind, and sun. If the land does not have a grove of trees for protection, a three sided enclosure is best. The back wall must be in a location that blocks prevailing wind.

The best bedding for horses is hemp, wood shavings, or straw. A sturdy rubber mat will provide cushion against the hard floor but covering it with bedding is necessary for warmth. Straw is the most affordable option but can contain fungal spores that are harmful to the animal if it eats the bedding.

Stables require daily attention. The stable will need to be mucked out at least three times a day if the pet is inside all day. To provide a comfortable environment, discard all droppings and level the bedding out so it is spread evenly across the floor.

Like any other pet, horses require fresh water and nutritious food. A trough with a water supply pipe provides the most convenience for the owner but during the winter it is important to make sure the pipe does not freeze. With the proper horse care, these animals will live long, healthy lives.




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