A lot goes into keeping your equines healthy! This post describes some basic practices to help you provide the best care possible for the equine species on your farm. Did you know that equines include horses, donkeys, mules, miniature horses, hinnies, ponies, and even zebras!
Basic Health Practices
Feed and Water
Water is the most essential nutrient for your equine. Access to clean water at all times is first and foremost in animal health for all species. Monitoring feed is critical for equines. Improper feeding can lead to conditions that affect your horse’s overall health. Determine the type of feed based on your horse’s job. For example, if it is a performance horse, a performance feed will better meet that horse’s nutritional needs. If the horse is over 20, you might want to consider a senior feed.
Dental Care
There are several dental problems that horses can have, including sharp points, retained teeth, improper alignment, and infected or fractured teeth. All of these can inhibit their ability to eat, affecting their overall health. Dental exams should occur at least once a year.
Hoof Care
A horse’s hooves should be trimmed every 6 to 12 weeks. How much time between farrier visits depends on how fast the hooves grow. Improper care can lead to cracks, infection, and lameness.
Overall Health
Adult horses should have yearly checkups with their veterinarian. If your horse is over 20, it should be seen twice a year, as horses are more likely to develop health problems at this age. During these checkups, your veterinarian will help you determine a healthcare plan that best meets your horse’s needs.
Common Parasite Contol
There are several methods of parasite prevention, including chemical and environmental methods. Here are some basic standard practices used:
- Pasture Rotation – decrease parasites by interrupting their life cycles
- Clean Stalls – decreasing exposure to parasites
- Avoid Crowded Pastures – decreasing exposure to parasites
- Set up a deworming program with your veterinarian
Vaccines
It is essential to vaccinate your horses to help prevent diseases. Its age and job determine the vaccines you would give your horse. For example, if it is a broodmare (breeding female), it may not need as many vaccines as a performance horse that frequently meets new horses. It is essential to discuss with your veterinarian which vaccines would best suit your horse.
Common Diseases of Horses
Be aware of the common equine diseases. Below is a list of diseases to be aware of, some of which can be prevented by vaccination:
- Rabies
- Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE)
- Equine Influenza
- Strangles
- Equine Herpesvirus
- Tetanus
- Coronavirus
- West Nile Disease
Resources
Controlling Common Internal Parasites of the Horse