Basics For Horse Care
Owning a horse is a huge responsibility (aside from the tangible things that I am going to talk about, everyone with a horse should look into equine liability laws). There are many things that go along with horse ownership, but there are some basics that every horse owner should know.
Shelter for a horse is one of the essentials. During rain, constant sun, wind, and harsh temperatures, horses should have shelter to take advantage of. A three sided enclosure is typically efficient. A simple structure placed in the field the horses roam will provide a shelter for them to take advantage of when they are uncomfortable. All the horses in the field should be able to fit inside.
Water is an obvious basic for horses. Something to remember are horses require a constant supply of water. The water needs to be clean and fresh. There are a few different options when it comes to supplying water. First, a bucket can be utilized by filling it with water and placing it in a tire to prevent the horse from tipping it over. A water trough is the preferred way to provide constant water for horses supplied by a pipe. However, during the winter this needs to be frequently checked to be sure the pipe has not frozen.
Cleaning of the stable is essential. This process is called mucking. The purpose is to remove all droppings with a shovel to keep a clean area for the horses. The bedding area needs to be properly sanitized on a regular basis as well. This can be done by using a stable disinfectant. Bedding should be straightened out at this time as well. It is important to keep in mind that if your horse is stabled all day, it should be cleaned out three times each day.
While there are many responsibilities when caring for horses, these essentials are things to always remember. Horses make great companions, but be prepared for the responsibilities and chores that go along with ownership.
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