Owning a horse isn’t like having a dog or cat. These beautiful animals require plenty of specialized care. If you want to have a happy and healthy horse, you’ll need to invest time, money, and energy into them.
However, horses can be perfect companions for the right person. Intelligent and emotional, these creatures can help you live a fulfilling life. Use these essential tips for first-time horse owners to prepare for your new family member.
Find a Reputable Vet
Horses are complex animals that need the right kind of care. Before bringing your new horse home, find a reputable large animal veterinarian to handle all their healthcare needs.
You might need to do some digging to find the right veterinarian for you. Read reviews and speak with current and former clients to determine if they will be a good fit. The person selling your horse should also have good recommendations for quality vet care as well as some health records to share with you.
Perfect Their Enclosure
Since horses aren’t indoor pets, you’ll need to create a strong and sturdy enclosure. Some people rent space at equestrian centers if they don’t have enough land to build their own stalls and maintain their own pastures. This is a good option for new horse owners who may need assistance caring for their pet.
If you choose to create your own enclosure, make sure it has a few essential features. Their stall should have enough insulation to keep them comfortable in any season. You’ll also want to consider a loafing shed in the pasture for additional relief from the elements. And, you should also invest in a sturdy, horse-friendly fence to protect them on your property, of course. Learn how to improve your horse’s life with fencing.
Take Riding Lessons
Some people buy a horse intending to learn how to ride. However, knowing how to ride a horse before bringing yours home will help you avoid newbie pitfalls and nasty accidents.
Take riding lessons before you buy your new horse. You’ll need to know how to handle them so you can establish a strong owner-animal bond. Riding a horse is all about trust and confidence (your horse trusting you and your confidence), so gain some experience before purchasing to start your relationship on the right foot.
Keep Up With Hoof Maintenance
While horses seem like durable animals, they have vulnerable feet. Their hooves need routine care to maintain a good quality of life.
Find a reliable farrier to regularly check and clean up your horse’s feet. These specialized professionals know how to work with any kind of horse to remove debris and identify infections. A horse’s hooves directly impact their health, so it is crucial to establish a good working relationship with a farrier.
Horses are sensitive animals that need a lot of TLC. With these essential tips for first-time horse owners, you can build a fulfilling relationship with these majestic creatures.
