A Healthy Horse Is A Happy Horse

By Benjamin Wise

When you own a horse you become responsible for its health. Horses can become affected by many health problems such as colic, thrush and internal parasites. A number of conditions can be prevented and treated by an owner, but every horse owner should have the aid of a local equine veterinarian.

Before purchasing your horse, you should have a veterinarian give it an inspection to make sure that he is in good health. Thereafter it is advisable to have your veterinarian give your horse an annual checkup.

I was interested in purchasing a school master for show jumping from the stable where I kept my horse. I really did not have an in-depth knowledge of horses, but I knew enough to request a veterinary inspection. I did not know any vets, so I did not mind when the owner suggested using their local veterinarian.

We had gone over the horse and all seemed to be going well until we had him running loose in a lunge ring. I overheard the veterinarian inquire as to whether I was planning on doing much with the horse. I have no idea what he meant exactly, but I did know I was planning on show jumping. Ultimately I assumed that the horse had some health problems and would not be a long term investment.

The owners did not divulge any of the veterinarian's words, but I was saved from making a costly unsound investment. When you buy a horse you usually part with a substantial amount of money and it makes complete sense to ensure the health of your investment.

Horses require regular upkeep, they need to be dewormed and vaccinated regularly to prevent health problems and to maintain good health. When you do not deworm your horse, he becomes infested with parasites which can infect other horses he is around and it affects his own health.

You may not see the internal damage worms create, but with large infestations you will see the difference on the outside when his coat is no longer glossy and he keeps losing weight no matter how much you feed him.

When you look after horses you can do other prevention techniques besides deworming, to increase chances of a good healthy environment for your horse.
- Remove droppings from paddocks and fields on a regular basis. If completely removing is not possible then disk or harrow the field to break up the droppings.
- Rotate your pastures, leave a field completely empty for a period of time
- Remove bot eggs from the horses with a bot knife
- Grazing with cattle can aid worm control

The usual vaccinations given to a horse are for equine influenza, tetanus and equine encephalitis. It is strongly recommended that you have all your horses vaccinated; your local veterinarian will be able to assist you and determine which vaccines your horse needs and when he should be given them.

Having a horse is a huge responsibility and they are reliant on you for good health. Take pride in owning a horse and ensure he is well cared for. Have a basic first aid kit at hand and develop a relationship with your local veterinarian.

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