Trail Horse Care

Basic Trail Horse Needs

As they say: what's good for the goose, is good for the gander, so it goes for your horse! As far as basic horse needs and care, there is no difference between a show horse and a trail horse, or a mare, and a gelding! A horse is a horse, and in order to keep it healthy there are fundamental needs that must be met year round.

Proper Periods of Rest

Your horse is suited to do a number of work- and entertainment related tasks, but after the work is done, it is important to provide adequate periods of rest to keep it physically, and mentally fit. Unlike humans, horses do not need a solid, unbroken period of sleep time, however, just like humans they require a healthy balance between work, rest, and sleep.

Proper Turnout

Turnout is important. Some barns offer individual and group turnout, some have large paddocks, others offer daily pasture turnout. A thorough understanding of your horse's needs, temperament, and condition is critical to good horse keeping. Some horses, when left behind, might get a little antsy when another horse leaves the paddock, pasture, or barn for a trail ride, others might throw a major fit, and run the fence line calling out repeatedly until their buddy returns. Horses are herd-bound animals and their reaction is based on natural instincts. It is something we have to expect and understand. How do you react when your horse is anxious?

Proper Deworming

A worming program has to be safe and effective. Most horse owners put their horses on a systematic (de-)worming schedule to prevent gastrointestinal parasitic worm infestation. Fortunately there are a variety of medicines, technically called "dewormers" but commonly referred to as "wormers," to help control internal parasites in your horse. Unfortunately there is no one-size-fits-all deworming program.

Proper Hoof Care

“No Hoof, No Horse!” As trail riders, we contend with a lot of different ground we need to cover on our rides. Trails can be groomed, flat, steep, or rocky. We as the owners of our trail horses need to be aware of our horse’s livelihood… his hooves. A hoof’s conformation and health play a role in its ability to hold up under long, heavy use. Diligent hoof care is essential.

Proper Toothcare

As your beloved horse ages it affects not only their muscles, bones, and senses, but also their teeth, and thus, ability to chew. When an aged horses has worn down its teeth to a point where the teeth are smooth, the horse is referred to as being "smooth mouthed".

Quidding and Choking

A smooth mouth usually appears at around 11 (plus) years of age. When a horse spits out partially chewed wads of hay, it is called wadding, or "quidding", and often can be a sign that the horse may need dental care, and/or be fed a different (senior) diet. Poorly chewed hay and fiber can predispose the horse to choke. If your horse is choking, which can also happen while out on the trails, make sure you know the signs and immediate actions to take.

• Daily Care Year Round
• Spring Care
• Summer Care
• Autumn Care
• Winter Care