Providing proper care for your horse is essential to ensuring their health, happiness, and longevity. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you maintain your horse’s long-term needs:

1. Adequate Shelter and Protection: Ensure your horse has access to shelter that protects them from harsh weather conditions, including wind, rain, and extreme temperatures. Depending on the climate and your horse’s needs, blankets or rugs may be necessary to keep them warm and comfortable.
2. Regular Fecal Worm Egg Counts (FWEC) and Deworming: To protect your horse from internal parasites, schedule regular fecal worm egg counts (FWECs) and administer deworming treatments every 6 to 13 weeks, depending on the product used and the level of infestation. This helps to control the parasite load and maintain your horse’s digestive health.
3. Routine Vaccinations: Keep your horse up to date with vaccinations to protect against common diseases. It’s important to remember that immunity does not accumulate over the years, so regular vaccinations are essential to maintaining effective protection.
4. Appropriate Exercise: Provide regular exercise suited to your horse’s age, fitness level, and overall health. Exercise is vital for maintaining muscle tone, joint health, and mental well-being.
5. Constant Supply of Fresh, Clean Water: Ensure your horse has access to a continuous supply of fresh, clean water. Hydration is crucial for their overall health, digestion, and temperature regulation.
6. Balanced Diet: Offer your horse good quality hay and a balanced diet tailored to their specific nutritional needs. Proper nutrition is the foundation of your horse’s health, supporting everything from energy levels to coat condition.
7. Stress-Free Environment: Minimise stress by providing a calm and safe environment. Reducing stress can help prevent behavioural issues and health problems, contributing to a happier, more content horse.
8. Annual Health Exams: Schedule an annual health exam with your veterinary surgeon. During these exams, your vet will assess your horse’s overall health and may check for conditions such as lameness, laminitis, and Cushing’s disease, which are common concerns as horses age.
9. Dental Exams: Regular dental care is essential for your horse’s health. Schedule dental exams every six months with your vet or a qualified equine dental technician to ensure your horse’s teeth are in good condition, which is critical for proper feeding and digestion.
10. Hoof Care: Maintain your horse’s hoof health with regular trimming and shoeing by a qualified farrier. Proper hoof care prevents discomfort and lameness, allowing your horse to move freely and comfortably.
11. Daily Grooming and Examination: Incorporate daily grooming into your routine, which not only keeps your horse’s coat clean and healthy but also provides an opportunity to check for any signs of injury, swelling, or abnormalities in the feet, legs, and body.
12. Lots of TLC: Finally, remember to shower your horse with love and attention. Your horse has been a loyal companion for years, and giving them plenty of tender loving care is essential for their emotional well-being. Showing affection strengthens your bond and ensures your horse feels appreciated and secure.

By following these guidelines, you’ll be taking comprehensive steps to ensure your horse’s long term needs, keeping them healthy, happy, and well-cared for throughout their life.