Blanketing
We all have questions about our horse's blankets. Does is fit right, Look okay, move with him, warm enough, or maybe it might rip in the field from rough play and branches? These questions will help you find the perfect blanket. Buy a blanket that is not to cheap but not too pricey (most pricey ones really don't work as well as mid priced blankets). At http://www.smartpakequine.com/ there are blanket experts that would LOVE to help you!
Grooming
Grooming your horse is important. the steps to grooming a horse are:
It is important to groom your horse because it will improve its health of its skin and coat. It will also help prevent infections such as thrush, scratches, and other skin problems and it cleans the horse so that it won't get chafed when the tack is on. It will additionally help you and your horse bond.
- Curry Comb
- Dandy Brush (Hard Brush)
- Soft Brush
- Face Brush or Towel
- Comb Mane and Tail
- Pick hooves
It is important to groom your horse because it will improve its health of its skin and coat. It will also help prevent infections such as thrush, scratches, and other skin problems and it cleans the horse so that it won't get chafed when the tack is on. It will additionally help you and your horse bond.
Feeding
When feeding a horse, you must monitor its grass, hay and grain. Older horses may need special joint supplements. Talk to your veterinarian about your horses diet. The Humane Society has many great tips on feeding you horse. http://www.humanesociety.org/animals/horses/tips/rules_horse_feeding.html
Grazing
All horses need to graze. Under grazing can lead to a malnourished horse, while over grazing can make your horse fat and founder. Every horse needs at least 2 acres to graze on. Get someone to check out your fields for anything poisonous or dangerous to your horses.
Grazing Muzzles
While on the topic of grazing, another way to keep your horse from foundering is a grazing muzzle. These muzzles can be found at any online/local tack shop.
Fencing
Everyone has seen horses grazing in a pasture surrounded by fencing. Fencing has been used for years, but some fences are worse than others. Barbed wire, Chain, Broken fences, and low fences are unacceptable. Wood, PVC, Airplane wire, Electric, and Metal fences are most commonly used today. Any broken fence should be repaired immediately.