Horses are magnificent animals whose strength, grace, and emotional intelligence have left a lasting impression on history. What is the one thing that every new horse owner quickly learns? Horses require a lot of care, which means a lot of effort. We’re here to help! Continue reading to learn horse care recommendations from an Treasure Coast, FL equestrian veterinarian.
Hoofin It
Maintaining Silver’s hooves is crucial to his overall health, mobility, and well-being. Unfortunately, many horses develop foot problems such as abscesses or thrush at some point. Poultices can be applied using newborn diapers. They can also be soaked and frozen to form ice packs.
Dispensers
Do you have anything that has to be applied immediately? Clean out an old ketchup bottle. This is also a wonderful method for applying hoof oil. You can also use a dish scrubber filled with your preferred product to whiten Silver’s socks. This is useful to keep on hand for shows.
Showers
Regardless of how clean your stable is, dust will find its way everywhere. One thing you could do to protect your tack? Buy clear shower curtains and hang or drape them over the saddle racks. The rings and ring holes offer a great lot of flexibility when working in a variety of regions and environments.
Bait and Switch
The next time you need to treat your hooved companion’s parasites, properly clean the tube and fill it with molasses. He may suddenly become more ready to take his medication!
A Clean Sweep.
Another item on our ‘bucket’ list? Clean the buckets using a (new) toilet cleaning brush.
Finishing Touch
Shower caps can also be used to measure out grain. Place them over buckets to keep flies out of your horse’s food. If you want to divide your meals at night to make early morning feedings easier, this could be a game changer.
Apron
Aprons exist for a reason: to protect your clothes. While they were intended to protect chefs from stains, they are also highly handy in a barn. Wearing one to groom Silver (somewhat) reduces your chances of becoming completely covered in horse hair. The pockets are also great for keeping brushes, hoof picks, and small bottles. (Your horse will not mind if you use them for carrots or apples).
Avoiding Mix-ups
Boarders typically struggle to separate their stuff from the rest of the barn. Use baggage tags or decorative tape to make Silver’s items easily identifiable. (In an ideal world, everybody in the barn would do this, but that’s another story.)
Tacky Hacks
Shoe racks and hanging coat racks (with hooks) are significantly superior methods for hanging bridles than a board with a nail. These are typically available at a low cost in secondhand stores. Attach a clean tuna can to a board and paint it all at a very modest cost.
Hydration
Are you concerned that your horse is not getting enough water? Try adding some organic apple juice. You may also want to experiment with adjusting the temperature slightly. Cold water may not appeal to every horse.
Trail Smarts
Consider getting a fishing vest for your trail rides. All of those pockets are great for storing snacks, your phone, a hoof pick, and a first-aid kit. (Of course, apples and carrots.)
Luggage tags may be beneficial on the path. Place your contact information on them, and voila! Your horse now has ID tags. If something goes wrong and your horse flees, he will still feel a connection to you.
Make A Windbreak
Hedges have long been common in the UK, and not just for aesthetic reasons. They also help to mark land boundaries, offer habitat for local wildlife, and act as windbreaks for cattle owners! Choose non-toxic, fast-growing options. Holly (Ilex aquifolium), Buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica), Prunus, Photinia, and Thuja are all good choices.
Lighting the Way
If you’re working at night or in a dark area, a miner’s helmet or headband could come in handy. Keep one in your trailer also.
Untangled Polo Wraps
Wraps are a reliable staple, but they are not the easiest to clean. Use a lingerie bag to keep them from becoming tangled when washing.
Reducing Time
Do you use shavings as bedding? Instead of tearing the bag open along the perforation, mark an X on the larger flat area. When you turn it over, the shavings all fall out at once. This is much easier than trying to hold the bag upright and shake everything inside.
Schedule An Appointment With Our Treasure Coast, FL Equine Veterinarians
Are you looking for a reputable Treasure Coast, FL equine veterinarian? Please do not hesitate to call us if your horse requires veterinary care. We are thrilled to deliver exceptional service and attention!
