Horse management depends on weather conditions. Animals can be kept indoors or outdoors. During the cold season, they are kept in a barn or stable. The barn is intended for 1-2 individuals; the stable is for many horses.
A good stable for keeping a horse should be equipped with stalls and stalls. Stalls are intended for horses; stalls are for the rest of the people looking after them. The stall size should be such that the horse can lie comfortably with its legs stretched out.
The stall walls are made of durable wood, and the bars are made of durable mesh, which promotes ventilation and good lighting. The latches on the doors must be very secure so the horse cannot open them.
The stall must be cleaned periodically. To do this, the horse is transferred to a free room, the floor is washed and disinfected, and the dirty bedding is removed.
Horse care: coat care
In addition to feeding and watering, the horse must be brushed. Before dressage, the coat must be wiped with a brush, and heavy dirt must be scrubbed off with a hair comb.
When cleaning, it is essential to remember a few simple rules:
- – do not approach the horse from behind
- – do not sit close to the horse’s feet
- – do not make sudden movements
- – do not shout or hit the horse.
It would be best to wash your horse about once a week. Special shampoos and conditioners are needed to add shine to the coat. After cleaning, you should blot the wool with a dry cloth.
Hoof care
It is impossible to imagine caring for a horse without shoeing. Blacksmiths carry out this procedure, which should be done on both young and old horses approximately once a month. First, the hooves are examined, measurements are taken, and old ones are removed if necessary.
Before attaching a new horseshoe, the hooves are thoroughly cleaned, and only then are new ones attached using special tools. Horseshoes are also made depending on the activity that the horse is engaged in (for example, sports racing or economic activity). Also, depending on which legs bear the heavy load, the horse is shod only on the front or back hooves.
Keeping horses and caring for these beautiful animals is troublesome, costly, and requires much time and effort. However, you will have a great time and a loyal friend.