Equine Health Care: Ensuring the Well-Being of Horses

Ensure the well-being of horses and donkeys, here are some general care tips based on established practices for their health and happiness:

For Your Beloved Horse

• Nutrition: Provide a balanced diet with access to fresh grass or high-quality hay, supplemented with grain or concentrates if needed based on their activity level. Fresh, clean water should always be available.

• Shelter: Offer a stable or shelter to protect them from extreme weather—heat, cold, rain, or wind. A three-sided run-in shed can work well in pastures.

• Exercise: Horses need regular movement, whether through riding, turnout in a paddock, or pasture time, to maintain physical and mental health.

• Hoof Care: Schedule regular farrier visits (every 6-8 weeks) to trim hooves and check for issues like cracks or thrush.

• Veterinary Care: Annual checkups, vaccinations (e.g., tetanus, rabies), and deworming tailored to your area are essential. Watch for signs of colic, a common digestive issue.

• Social Needs: Horses are herd animals and thrive with companionship, whether another horse or compatible livestock.

For Your Beloved Donkey:

• Nutrition: Donkeys are efficient eaters and need a high-fiber, low-sugar diet—think straw, hay, or limited grass. Overfeeding rich foods can lead to obesity or laminitis. Water access is equally critical.

• Shelter: Like horses, they need protection from harsh weather. Donkeys are hardy but dislike wet conditions, so a dry resting area is key.

• Exercise: They’re active by nature—provide space to roam or engage them with light work or play.

• Hoof Care: Regular trimming (every 6-12 weeks) keeps hooves healthy, as overgrown hooves can cause pain or lameness.

• Veterinary Care: Routine checkups, vaccinations, and parasite control are vital. Donkeys mask illness well, so monitor subtle behavior changes.

• Social Needs: Donkeys are highly social and bond strongly—pairing them with another donkey, horse, or even a goat can prevent loneliness.

General Tips for Both:

• Check them daily for injuries, unusual behavior, or signs of distress (e.g., lethargy, not eating).

• Maintain clean living spaces to prevent disease—remove manure and wet bedding regularly.

• Build trust through calm, consistent handling; both species respond well to routine.