Horses as you may expect, require a lot of upkeep all year round. As with all animals, no matter the size, they do require care and attention. No matter your level of horse expertise, there’s plenty to know and learn about your equine friends in terms of essential springtime care. For one thing, they must always have access to an adequate amount of feed, regular vaccinations, deworming and other types of equine care. How does horse care change throughout the months and what products are needed for a healthy stable of horses? Read on to learn the top spring essentials to ensure a healthy horse.
1. Fly Masks
Fly masks are used to protect horses from flies and other pesky insects as more and more irritating insects come out during the warmer months. Aside from the eyes, many also cover the jawline and ears. A proper fit is a must to protect your horses —for one thing, they shouldn’t be too tight or too loose. They should also be able to blink freely underneath the mask without disruption.
2. Fly Sheets
Fly sheets are similar to fly masks in that they’re meant to protect your horse from harmful or annoying pests. On top of that, they can also offer UV protection from the harsh sun. Worn over the body, they allow your horse to move freely without any restriction. Many also come with reflective strips for better visibility at night. Fly sheets are meant to be cool and prevent your horse from becoming too hot during the spring.
Pro Tip: Neck covers are also a good idea if you want to give them a bit of extra protection (many fly sheets come with an attached neck cover).
3. Wound Powder
Horses are prone to cuts and scrapes from their time outdoors and in rough stables and barns— especially on their legs. While most won’t require veterinary attention, it’s a good idea to perform simple first aid and assess these cuts. For minor abrasions, wound powder can be a quick and effective way to both cover the wound and stop the bleeding.
4. Hoof Pick
As far as grooming goes, you’ll want to invest in a quality hoof pick. Quite simply, hoof picks are used to remove dirt, rocks, and mud that get stuck in your horse’s hooves. Especially during the springtime, it’s important to pay attention to your horses’ hoof health, as not cleaning them regularly can lead to various health issues such as thrush. Nails and other sharp objects can also pierce the sole, which will make it painful for them to walk and lead to an array of other medical conditions and discomfort.
5. Shedding Blade
Most horses will shed their winter coats during the spring. Given that, you’ll want to get a shedding blade—this will speed up the process. Shedding blades are long pieces of flexible metal with sharp, jagged teeth on one side. Upon dragging this along their coats, the winter hairs will be loosened. A word of advice, pull gently as this can hurt your horses skin.
Spring is one of the most important seasons to ensure that your horses are healthy and happy. These are just a few of the products and supplies that can help. Remember, much like humans, horses require constant care for their well-being. What other supplies would you recommend?
