Tips For Keeping Your Horse Happy
VideoJug have combined expertise with British Horse Society Certified instructress Maylyn McEwan to provide you with a great guide to keep your horse happy.
Step 1: Feeding
Feed your horse a little but often. Out in the wild, horses graze all day. So a small amount at regular intervals is best.
Step 2: Feed them on time
Horses are creatures of habit and they like routine.
Step 3: Always feed lots of fibre
Horses love to chew. In the wild they chew up to 15000 times a day. Plus this can stop bad stereotypical behaviours, brought on by stress or boredom.
Step 4: Groom your horse
Groom your horse regularly on a daily basis to keep his coat parasite free and glossy. Plus he really enjoys it!
Step 5: A warm clean stable
A warm clean stable with a deep bed is just what your horse needs after being worked, as it takes the strain off his legs and joints. Just like us they love coming home! It makes them feel safe and secure. Make sure it's well ventilated and free of draughts and in view of other horses as they like companionship. Even other animals nearby such as a rabbit or geese will do.
Step 6: Turn him out
Horses are gregarious. Being herd animals they love being with other horses. Turning him out gives him a chance to move around freely, stretch his legs and play with his mates as he would in the wild!
Step 7: Exercise him on a daily basis
Exercise him on a daily basis. And vary the work, so he doesn't get bored, such as hacking and jumping. All work and no play will even make a horse called Jack a dull boy!
Step 8: Play time
Don't always ride your horse. But spend some time with him. He will then be more willing to be caught. And not only associate you with work.
Step 9: Quiet time
After all that play, make sure that your horse has plenty of rest. Horses love activity but they also like their quiet time too.
Step 10: Hoof Care
Check and clean his hooves on a daily basis. His shoes must be comfortable and well fitted. Therefore he will work more willingly.
Step 11: His tack
His tack should be comfortable and well fitted. He should not bite, kick or put his ears flat back when you approach with his tack. The more comfortable he is, the least resistant he will be.
Step 12: And finally…
If he's the affectionate type, give him lots of scratches and rubs just like another horse would do. Let him know that he's loved.
