Taking Care of Your Pet Horse

Horses are very intelligent and friendly animals, but having a pet horse requires a high level of commitment and an ability to provide quality care on a daily basis.

Before you make the decision to buy a horse, make sure that you have a lot of free time to dedicate to caring for the animal. Horses require a lot of attention. You need to know how to properly care for them, so your horses stay healthy and happy.

Taking care of your pet horse
The first thing your horse will need is a spacious and comfortable barn. Horses must have plenty of space to move around and rest comfortably. Your pet horse will require at least 2 lbs. of feed a day. The exact amount depends on the animal’s age, breed and size. There are many foods you can use to feed your horse. Some favorites are hay, pasture and beat pulp pellets. Horses also love treats like sugar and carrots. Have a first aid kit on hand in case of an emergency. Sometimes it can take a while to reach a veterinarian when your horse might be in need of immediate help. Groom your horse regularly to prevent health problems. Keep the stable clean, and remove unnecessary waste regularly.

Training your pet horse
Young horses will need to be taught how to wear a halter before you teach them how to lead. Teach your pet horse that you are in command and don’t tolerate bad behavior. Use a gentle but firm tone of voice when communicating with your horse. Learn how to use the whip correctly. Many owners misuse their whips. If you learn the proper techniques, your horse will obey your commands and trust you. If you have never owned a horse before, you may want to employ a professional trainer. They can teach you a variety of tips, tricks and techniques you can use in the future.