Category_Uutiset · heinäpelletti · hevoset · kuivikkeet · ruokinta · ruuansulatus · talvi · vesi ·Dec 09, 2023

Year of the Horse

This year is also coming to an end. In the Chinese zodiac, the year of the horse celebrates strength, freedom and vitality, but from the perspective of a stable keeper and horse owner, the year can be full of activities. While the horse symbolizes energy and agility, horse owners must also devote resources to caring for their horses throughout the year. The foundation of a horse's health is proper feeding, and feeding during the breeding season requires special planning depending on the time of year. Horses are grazers by nature, so getting high-quality grass feed is always the basis of their feeding, whether summer or winter. In winter, when pasture feeding is naturally not available in this hemisphere, the diet should be supplemented with good quality hay to ensure a balanced diet. If necessary, the horse can also be given hay pellets . During the summer season, lush pastures are used whenever possible, but grazing must also be monitored to avoid health problems such as gallstones and foot rot. Many horses also gain weight easily when free-range. Depending on the season, the feed should be supplemented with other nutrients in addition to minerals, such as seasonal vitamins, salt and calcium and phosphorus ratios, as needed. This will help maintain overall well-being. If you are unsure whether your horse needs to be given certain vitamin supplements based on its age, health or activity level, it is best to contact a veterinarian or other feeding expert.

According to the seasons

Horse care requires different equipment and practices as the seasons change. For many, autumn is the time to give their horses a complete health check-up as they return home from summer pastures and prepare for winter work. For example, dental care for horses is an essential part of the check-up, although teeth should be treated as soon as they become necessary. Annual check-ups and vaccinations can be scheduled for autumn. Thus, in winter, it is important to ensure that the horse has a sheltered place when outside, which protects it from harsher weather conditions, such as wind, rain and snowdrifts. In addition, depending on the horse and the weather, you should consider wrapping the horse to keep it dry and warm. Horses produce heat through metabolism. Feeding them high in fiber helps produce more heat energy compared to feeding them grain-based foods. High-fiber foods break down more slowly and create more heat during digestion. Fiber helps maintain intestinal health, prevents constipation and flatulence, and provides horses with a long-lasting source of energy. Fiber needs plenty of water to swell and soften, which helps the intestines function normally and makes it easier to pass stool. Water also helps the movement and function of fluids in the digestive tract, such as bile and gastric juices. Water in outdoor containers will freeze unless the containers are insulated. Therefore, to avoid intestinal problems in your horse, it is important to monitor your horse's water consumption by watering it regularly. In severe frosts, the stable's water dispensers should also be monitored for freezing and breaking pipes.

Towards spring

In spring, horses require a good brushing, as it is the time of natural coat shedding. Loose hair is found in the inner linings of blankets and saddle blankets, as well as on all surfaces where hair can cling. Brushing helps remove loose hair and promotes coat renewal, while also promoting skin health. Horses should be gradually acclimated to spring pastures to avoid digestive problems, and it is a good idea to pay attention to the condition of the hooves and hooves of the horses. Wetness causes unpleasant skin lesions, such as calluses. It is extremely important to ensure your horse has plenty of water to drink during the summer, especially during prolonged heatwaves or other hot weather. Electrolyte supplements can be beneficial for horses that are training or competing through the summer. Insect control is also important in the form of head covers, blankets and insect repellents. In addition, summer is the time to wash the more difficult sheep rugs with a pressure washer and take care of the annual cleaning and drying of the stable before returning from pasture. Check out Biohansa's small package service via this link . Remember to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media to receive information about new products and current topics directly to your email. Also give us feedback on what topics you would like to read about on Biohansa's blog! Photos: Pixabay

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According to the seasons

Towards spring