The experts at Rim Rock Ranch have put together the following guide for new horse owners.
Lake County, CA – To help new horse owners across the country the experts at Rim Rock Ranch have put together a list of the top 7 tips.
“Deciding to purchase a horse is a big decision, as they require a lot of attention and effort to keep healthy,” notes Chris Taylor of Rim Rock Ranch. “However, if properly cared for a horse can become a great pet and companion.”
1. Food
Excess feed can leave your horse with too much energy and can even cause health problems. A steady diet of good hay or forage feeds is ideal. Additionally, horses need “snacks” throughout the day due to their capacious digestive system. It’s a good idea to either put hay in the barn or put the horse to pasture.
2. Water
Horses bodies are nearly 70% water, and they can require up to 12 gallons of water every day. It is essential to always make sure your horse has a supply of clean, fresh water.
3. Shelter
At some point or another all horses will need shelter. A comfortable shelter for two horses should be about 5 x 10 meters wide and 2.5 meters high.
4. Company & Personal Space
Horses love their personal space. Allowing your horse to have at least 15 feet of space on all sides while grazing will keep them happy. But remember that horses are also social creatures. You should give your horse “friends” to keep them company, but be careful not to put rivaling horses near each other.
5. Grooming
Another important factor in taking care of a horse is grooming. You should always have a Hoof Pick, a currycomb, and a stiff brush nearby. However, grooming techniques can vary from horse to horse so it’s a good idea to research how to properly groom your specific horse.
6. Dental Care
Horses require routine dental care, especially as they get older. Fall is the best time to check a horse's teeth before winter-feeding of coarse hays.
7. Mucking-out
Another important part of keeping your horse healthy is "mucking-out" their stall daily. Mucking-out is a term for removing waste, dirt, and soiled bedding a horse’s stall. You should always maintain a clean, comfortable, sanitary bed for your horse or horses.
Rim Rock Ranch is located just minutes from Napa on the quiet side of the wine country. Available parcels range from 12 to 29 acres and feature pristine soil, a perfect grape-growing climate, a pest-free environment and California’s cleanest air. For more information visit RimRockNow.com.
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