Spring is one of the most anticipated times of the year for horse people as well. The long winter starts to recede, the days get longer and the stable environment looks different again. Mainly because there is plenty to clean and repair.
When the basics are put in order in time, many problems can be avoided and it can be ensured that the horse gets to enjoy the coming grazing season healthy.
One of the most important tasks every spring is checking the paddocks and fences. During the winter, frost, snow and ice may have caused unexpected damage to the structures. When the ground thaws, the posts may tilt and the structures embedded in the ground may move.
Go through the enclosures carefully
Are the posts still straight and firmly in place? Has any post rotted or otherwise been damaged? Are the fence wires or tapes tight enough and intact?
A fence in good condition is not just a practical matter, but a key safety factor. The horse is a curious and powerful animal, so even a small weakness in the enclosure can lead to dangerous situations.
Investing in high-quality materials pays for itself. Durable fence posts guarantee that the enclosure stays in good condition year after year and through every winter as well.
Biohansa's durable fence posts are made of A-class round pressure-treated wood and they are designed to withstand Finland's changing weather conditions.
The posts are pre-sharpened and available in several different sizes. The products have up to a 15-year warranty, which makes them a long-lasting and hassle-free solution.
For smaller domestic animals, such as sheep and goats, Biohansa has animal netting.
Spring and vitamins
Spring always means shedding, the pace of which varies by breed.
Shedding increases the horse's need for nutrition. In spring, special attention should be paid to the intake of vitamins and minerals.
Vitamins A, D and E are especially beneficial as they support immunity and muscle function.
In addition, biotin promotes the well-being of hooves and coat, and in small amounts selenium supports the muscular system together with vitamin E.
However, it is important to consider the horse's overall feeding and ensure that nutrients do not come too much or too little.
Deworming in a controlled and considered way
Spring is a key time for parasite control in horses. Parasites weaken the horse's ability to utilise nutrition efficiently. A large parasite burden causes weight loss, fatigue and reduced performance.
Certain parasites can also cause serious intestinal damage or colic.
Internal parasites in a horse do not always show outwardly immediately. One of the most common signs is weight loss or difficulty maintaining weight, even if feeding is correct.
In addition, the condition of the coat gives clues about the horse's well-being. A dull or poor-quality coat, slow shedding and a generally unkempt appearance may be related to parasites. In some horses, symptoms may also include diarrhoea, loose manure or recurring colic symptoms.
Especially in young horses, parasites can show as slowed growth or a rounded belly.
When the parasite situation is monitored regularly, the risk to other horses also decreases. Nowadays, targeted deworming based on real need is increasingly recommended.
The best way to find out the situation is to take a manure sample. This allows possible parasites to be identified and the right medicine to be chosen for the right situation.
This is a safer option for the horse's body.
Parasite control shows quickly in the horse's everyday life. The coat shines, there is more energy when nutrients can be properly utilised.
When you prepare properly in spring, a well-cared-for horse can transition to the grazing season more safely.
Indoor season ongoing
While the indoor season is still ongoing, it is also worth remembering that the quality of the bedding significantly affects the well-being of horses in the stable.
Biohansa's peat bedding effectively binds moisture and ammonia, which helps maintain fresher stable air and a more pleasant stable environment.
At the same time, it is equally important to ensure that, in addition to the stable, the enclosures and pasture areas are safe and functional.
The preparations do not require large investments or complicated measures. When things are done carefully, everyday life runs more smoothly and the horse feels better.
