Friday, April 7, 2017

Top Tips For First-Time Horse Owners

A new horse is a huge responsibility, and we’re not referring to its size either. Beautiful creatures though they are, horses require a lot of care. New horse owners need to be knowledgeable about everything to do with horses and their needs. Reading everything you can before you take such a big step is a smart thing to do.
Before you bring home your first horse, there are some things you need to learn and have on hand for the new arrival. Too many equine owners don’t make the right decision on the horse that they buy, which ends on the horse being abandoned. You wouldn’t buy a used car without looking into its background and understanding its beginnings, so you must be careful when you buy your first horse. With these tips, owning your first horse can be an experience you never forget:
Head Over Heart
When choosing your horse, don’t let the beauty of the creature sway your decision. Yes, horses are majestic animals, but you need to buy a horse who is fit and well from a reputable seller. You’ll only be heartbroken later if you have to sell. Ask the seller to ride the horse first and get a thorough history of the horse’s life so you can be aware of any past issues.

Have The Space
You cannot own a horse and not have the space for it. You can keep a horse in boarding, which is costly, or you can ensure your horse has a pasture to be free on that is free from dangers like loose wiring from the fences and rusty nails and machinery. If you make sure you have a mobile field shelter, your horse will have a lot more freedom in the space you’ve offered as well as a space to stay dry.

Learn To Ride
Too many horse owners don’t know how to ride a horse. It’s a very different experience to be led around at the fair than it is to understand the commands and the feel of a horse beneath you. Invest in the right helmet and saddle as well, so that you can feel comfortable on the horse and the horse can feel comfortable with you.

Healthy Diet
Your horse will require a healthy diet and it will be up to you to ensure that this is done correctly. They need access to fresh, clean water at all times and a horse needs to be able to graze as much as possible. It’s ideal for horses to always have access – day or night – to fresh pasture. Only the best quality mould free forage should be used, and you should speak to your vet if you have any concerns about weight or if your horse is pregnant.
Looking after a horse is a big job, and it’s one that shouldn’t be taken lightly by the owner. Horses are amazing creatures and take more work than a normal pet, which is why you should view your horse as more than an investment.

No comments: