To keep your horse healthy, it’s important to do more than just feed and exercise it. You also need to take care of your horse's health in several ways, including regular visits to the vet for vaccinations, controlling parasites, and taking care of its teeth. In addition, grooming and hoof care, as well as protecting your horse from bad weather, are essential.
When Should My Horse See a Veterinarian?
Adult horses should visit the vet for a full checkup at least once a year. Horses more than 20 years old should see the vet twice a year or more often, because they can get sick more easily. Your vet might suggest a health program for your horse that includes routine blood tests.
How Can I Tell If My Horse Is Sick?
You should check your horse regularly for signs of illness, especially during feeding and grooming. Common signs include:
not eating
diarrhea, dry manure (feces), or decreased quantity of manure
coughing or sneezing
discharge from the eyes or nose
loss of hair or itchy skin
limping or not wanting to move
If your horse shows any of these signs for more than a day or two, it’s a good idea to schedule a veterinary examination.
How Do I Give Medication to My Horse?
Giving medication to a horse can be easy if you stay calm and follow safety rules. Always stay close to the horse, either by standing next to it or by gently pressing against it. Use a strong halter and lead rope to control the horse's head.
Medications can come in different forms. Here's how to give each kind to your horse:
Powder: Mix it with the horse's feed.
Tablets: Soak them water, or crush them and mix with applesauce or molasses. Then add the mixture to feed, or give it directly into the horse's mouth with a syringe.
Paste: Stand next to the horse’s head, gently hold the head, and use a syringe to squirt the paste into the horse's mouth at the corner of the lips.
Some medications need to be injected into the muscle, usually in the neck or thigh. Ask your vet to show you how to do this properly.
Always read and follow the instructions on the medication label.
