Horse

Having the right tools makes it easier to keep your barn clean and organized, and your horse looking and feeling their best. This comprehensive guide includes a list of must-have horse supplies, from grooming supplies and first aid kits, to blankets, feed room necessities, and manure cleanup tools.

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Jump to section Different Face Markings on a Horse How To Make Your Horse’s Face Marking Pop

WRITTEN BYCourtnee Morton, DVM, CVA, CVC Veterinarian Dr. Courtnee Morton is a 2017 Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine graduate. Since graduation, she completed an equine internship…,When it comes to being a pet parent, the hardest part is trying to decide when it’s time at the end of a pet’s life. Whether in an emergency, or as your horse ages, there may come a point where you wonder if they are still comfortable and happy. Measuring quality of life (QOL) in animals can be quite difficult, as they can’t verbally tell us how they’re feeling or about their comfort and happiness levels. Luckily, you and your veterinarian have some tools at hand to help evaluate. What Does Quality of Life Mean for Horses? Quality of life is defined as “the standard of health, comfort, and happiness experienced by an individual.”  As a horse’s owner and daily caretaker, you can gauge these factors by a horse’s attitude, wellbeing, and behavior, which you will know best. The current average lifespan of a horse is approximately 25-30 years–much longer than it used to be, since many horses are now provided proper veterinary care, good nutrition, and aids to help with comfort for arthritis and other medical issues. Some conditions that may shorten either the lifespan or the comfort level of your horse over time include, among others:  Arthritis Navicular syndrome Poor dental health Inability to obtain nutrients from food Metabolic diseases Arthritis, decreased energy, and weight loss in the summers and winters are not uncommon in geriatric horses, even with appropriate care. While these may lead to a gradual decline in health or daily comfort, major injuries or severe illnesses should be considered for QOL long-term. If your horse has suffered a catastrophic accident­–consider if its’ fair to prolong their life or if they are suffering and unlikely to recover. Should your horse experience such an illness or injury, your vet will discuss your horse’s prognosis. They will discuss the likelihood of a smooth recovery or if attempting to treat them might be a long, uphill, expensive battle during which your horse is experiencing significant pain or stress. We must remember to always include the emotional as well as physical well-being when we are considering a horse’s quality of life.

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Jump to section What Causes Horse Allergies? Horse Allergy Symptoms Horse Allergy Diagnosis Horse Allergy Treatment Other Tips for Managing Horse Allergies The Best Horse Breeds for People with Allergies

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Horse camping is trail riding with your horse while packing supplies to eat, sleep, and relax along the way.   During an equine camping trip, many riders enjoy photography, fishing, reading near scenic locations, wildlife spotting, and swimming.   Horseback camping is appealing because of the interaction between the horse and the rider, says Ron Lineberger, owner and outfitter at Butte Creek Outfitters in Cody, Wyoming. After all, you’re basically living right next to your horse! Having a horse as transportation is a bonus.  “The amount of distance you can cover in a day, as opposed to backpacking, and the convenience of having a pack animal to carry all your camping gear is attractive,” Lineberger says.  ,Riding all day in beautiful scenery, settling in for the night beside a crackling campfire, and waking up in the morning to saddle up for another day of trail riding is an incredible experience. But equestrian camping requires preparation, and we’ve gathered tips to help you get ready. 

Shorter daylight hours and colder temperatures often mean less time at the barn. A cold-weather horse grooming routine can help keep your horse healthy and comfortable, even if it’s too cold to ride.   These horse grooming tips for winter can help you get the job done efficiently.