Horses require a lot of care and a lot of attention. This article will help you learn how to take care of your horse - by following a few simple steps you can keep your horse happy and healthy!
Steps
Step 1. Every time you go out on the horse you must first groom it well
To do this you must, first of all, check the animal from head to toe to make sure it has no swellings or injuries; if it's a scratch don't worry, as long as it's not too deep or extended.
Step 2. Once you have checked it well, you can start grooming it
Pamper him, comb his mane and tail well and use a hard brush first and then a soft brush.
Step 3. Next, place the saddle and bridle
First of all put a blanket and, on top, the saddle. Make sure you tighten the straps well and that the saddle is well placed. Then place the reins on the horse's head and the bit in the mouth. If he refuses the bite or spits it out, ask an expert to help you place it. Check that everything is in place and take it to the area where you intend to mount.
Step 4. Check the waistline again, some horses retract their bellies and inflate their chests when the strap is put on
Lower the stirrups, they both need to be the length of your arm. Get on a horse!
Step 5. Exercise is important
Physical activity keeps your horse fit. You can ride for a long time, but gradually increase the time so that lactic acid does not develop in the horse's musculature. If you plan to ride for more than two hours, take a break to get the horse to catch its breath and give it some water. Also make sure that the area you have chosen is adequate for the horse. However, if you take your horse for a run only in a paddock, then put it back in the stable, it may become impatient.
Step 6. Take off the harness and give him a drink
Never leave the horse too long without drinking or he will feel thirsty. If the temperature is hot and the horse is sweaty, wet it using a garden hose. Use the special sweat scraper to remove excess water. If your horse gets scared when using the water hose, use a damp sponge. After this treatment your horse will want to roll on the ground. There is nothing wrong with it, it is normal!
Step 7. When you remove the saddle and blanket, groom him on his chest, where the straps were
It is very important to do this as this area could become inflamed if not treated properly. Push your body against the horse as you do when you want to hold a hoof in your hands. Gently rub around the waist (where the belt mark is left). Don't rub too hard, it could hurt him.
Step 8. Stables also need attention
Use shavings, straw or whatever works best for your horse. With a fork and a bucket you remove the dung and get rid of the damp stains that can make a terrible smell! However, your horse doesn't need a stable to survive, they do well on pasture too.
Step 9. Check that your horse has fresh water and that the feeders are clean
Give him the necessary food. Ask the previous owner how much food he gave him, what kind and how often. Try to keep his diet as simple as possible (remember wild horses only have grass!), And know that hay and oats are good for him and reduce the chances of colic. Make sure he has a large enough pasture to find the grass he needs.
Advice
- Never be in a hurry. If you do things fast, you will not create a good bond with your horse. Make sure you have enough time to mount and take care of your horse.
- Horses are sweet and kind creatures (if you don't scare them), so you need to be kind and loving too. Always approach him slowly and calmly, do not rush as if you are going to attack him.
- Always groom it well both before and after mounting.
- Don't just ride him, spend at least the same amount of time just being with him. This will allow you to build a relationship of trust.
- Make sure you can see your horse every day.
- Every day you will need to give your horse or pony all the attention it needs.
- When you approach the horse, do so from a direction where it can see you. It is preferable to approach slowly from the left side.
- Occasionally you can give your horse a treat, such as an apple and a few carrots.
- Feed your horse enough.
- Feed him every day.
- You need to have free time every day and worry about your horse's needs, among which is receiving a great deal of affection.
- Take your horse out every day.
- NEVER run around your horse!
Warnings
- Never show a horse that you are nervous / scared, it will get nervous in turn and throw a tantrum.
- Make sure there are no poisonous plants in the pasture, your horse could graze them and feel sick.
- Don't expect to deal with a horse that is too neurile for your level of experience.
- If you ride on the street, wear reflective clothing.
- Don't make any sudden movements or noises, your horse may panic!
- Don't relate to a horse you don't know without having an expert with you.
- Only walk behind a horse if you are too close or too far away for it to kick you.
- Always wear a helmet when riding.
- If you are a child, never ride a horse without adult supervision.
