tips for keep your steed in tip top condition??

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el_Snowflakes

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so, its the time of year that we all become a bit obsessed with health kicks and getting in shape- what tips can you share to help keep our horses in tip top shape?
 
elsazzo said:
i mean 'condition' in its broadest sense- over all good health physically and mentally
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That's a bit of a tall order for one post, but good health tips could include;
1. Plan your worming programme for 2011 and make sure you poo pick/rotate your fields.
2. Review your horse's nutrition - you could ask for advice from the feed company nutritionists (do remember though - they are paid to sell as much feed as they can)
3. Give your horse a broad spectrum vit/min supplement for one month to make sure they have no deficiencies.
4. Consider feeding oil - to add shine and condition. Linseed oil is great, corn oil also good and cheaper.
5. Get your horse's teeth rasped, and make sure the vaccinations are up to date, and the feet in good order.
6. Get to know your horse's normal T(emperature) P(ulse) and R(respiration) rates.
7. Feed as wide a range of forage as possible (to mimic nature) so grass, hay, haylage, etc all add interest and wider nutrient availability to the diet.
8. Make sure your rugs fit well, have a change ready in case of rips/leaks, and groom your horse regularly (taking time to check for injuries).
9. Allow your horse to socialise with other horses for as much time as possible - horses need friends.

S :D
 
Shils has pretty much covered it all!
For ours I would add - as much turnout as possible (with our doddery girls it keeps any fat legs and sniffy noses at bay!).
Keep an open mind when looking at feed companies offerings - they are paid to make them appeal to you. I feel chaff and supps (microionized linseed, yeasacc and magnesium). Way cheaper than posh balancers etc and without any added crap - why do companies so like to add molasses to everything?!!
Keep your horses feet in tip top condition - wether shod or not. No foot, no horse is so so true. If you have flaky weak hooves then look at nutrition first. Make sure a professional sees your horses feet regularly and keeps them sound.
Make sure you have decent horse health/first aid knowledge. Will save on panics and help you deal quickly with any small probs that arise.
 
For our TB's it's lots of feed, lots of work, ad lib hay, regular turnout and routine :). Not to mention warm rugs and pampering :)
 
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