Owning a horse is a significant commitment of both time and money. With a lifespan of 25 to 30 years, horses will be a major part of your life for a long time. That said, horses are emotional, loyal animals that will bring you many years of joy and companionship. There is also nothing quite like the feeling of freedom and exhilaration when riding a horse at full gallop.

This page provides important information on the daily health and care of your horse.

Born to Run – They Need Space

Even if you don’t own a farm, your horse will still need a paddock of at least three acres. Many horse owners choose to agist their horses on properties with other horses, which works well since horses are social animals and enjoy company.
Paddocks should be well-drained to reduce mud and have a good cover of grass, with access to trees and shelter for protection.
Strong, secure fencing is essential. Wooden posts and rails are ideal, but if wire is used, ensure it’s in good condition (not barbed) with no loose strands.
It’s also important to find a paddock close to home so you can check on and feed your horse daily. Make sure the area is free of poisonous weeds, rubbish, debris, or anything your horse could get tangled in.

Exercise
If their paddock is large enough, horses will generally get plenty of exercise on their own. However, if they are never ridden, they can become lazy and gain weight.
Make it a priority to ride your horse as often as possible. Ensure you have the right saddle and equipment, as well as proper riding attire—especially a helmet and smooth-soled boots for riding.

Feeding

Feeding routines can vary greatly depending on your horse’s level of activity, the time of year, and the quality of pasture or grass available.
When pastures are lush and plentiful, lightly ridden horses may not need supplementary feeding. However, during times when pasture quality declines, such as in the summer due to water shortages, it’s important to provide good quality Lucerne or grass hay daily to help your horse maintain a healthy weight.
Horses with higher energy needs, such as lactating mares and young growing horses, may require additional concentrated feeds, like pellets or grains, alongside their pasture and hay.

Water
Horses can consume up to 45 litres of water or more each day, so it’s crucial to ensure they have access to a sufficient water supply at all times.

Shelter
Providing shelter from the sun, wind, and rain is essential for your horse’s comfort. This can be as simple as a hedge or a cluster of trees. If your paddock lacks natural cover, you should provide a shed or stable.
Rugs are also an excellent way to protect your horse from the elements, especially for young or older horses. If your horse is rugged, it’s important to check the rug daily to ensure it’s in good condition and not causing discomfort by being too heavy or rubbing and creating sores.

Find a Vet
Horses can get injured at any time, so it’s crucial to have a reliable vet who is experienced in treating horses. Talk to other horse owners or consult the Veterinary Association to find a good vet in your area.

Treatments

• Vaccination: Horses are highly sensitive to tetanus and need an annual vaccination. They should also be vaccinated yearly for strangles. The Equivac 2-in-1 vaccine, available at selected EPLA stores, protects against both diseases.
• Worming: Horses are prone to worms and should be treated 3-6 times a year. Worm types vary by region, so consult your vet for advice. Worming can be done with a stomach tube (drenching) by your vet, or you can use an all-wormer paste or pelleted wormer, available at EPLA.

Sun & Flies
In summer, flies can cause severe irritation and lead to weeping eyes or conjunctivitis in horses. A good fly veil and insect repellent can help prevent this.
Horses with white noses or pink skin are also prone to sunburn. Apply zinc cream or special animal sunscreen to protect these areas. Insect repellents and sunscreens, including combination products, are available at EPLA.

Hooves
Maintaining your horse’s hooves is vital. Overgrown or cracked hooves can allow water to seep in, causing pain, foot abscesses, or fungal infections. Stones can also get lodged in the sole or frog, so regularly check and clean hooves with a hoof pick, especially before riding. Apply hoof conditioner weekly, or more often if needed.

Teeth
A horse’s teeth grow continuously and require regular care. Many dental issues occur in the back teeth, which are hard to see. Sharp edges and hooks can develop, so it’s important to have a vet or equine dentist file them down yearly.

Horse Checklist

• Suitable paddock
• Shelter
• Feed and water containers
• Hay
• Saddle
• Saddle blanket
• Bridle
• Horse rug
• Grooming brush
• Desexing
• Hoof pick
• Worm paste
• 2 in 1 vaccine
• Fly veil
• Insect repellent
• Sunscreen