Horses depict strength, loyalty, freedom, and are often stronger than their other equine counterparts when it comes to physical ability. However, their care and nourishment can never be ignored since they too are prone to disease and poor health issues.
Grazing through green pastures, your horse might be prone to many diseases, and worm infections that may affect his or her internal health system. Proper care will ensure good horse health, a beautiful luscious mane, and healthy skin.
Neurological illness, fatigue, tiredness, behavioral disorders, diarrhea, and anorexia are signs that your horse may have incurred an illness. In case of any disease, proper care and confinement of diseased horse(s) are an absolute necessary.
Listed below are points you should follow when your horse falls sick.
1. Segregate the Horse
A horse showing any of the symptoms of viral diseases must be separated from the herd as soon as possible. Make sure he or she is in a stable that is at least 40 feet away in order to prevent a disease outbreak. If it is viral, then any mating should be strictly avoided as well until completely healed.
2. Designate a Separate Caretaker
Proper disinfecting boots, costume, and tools are the first steps in consideration along with assigning a separate caretaker for your horse which has been affected by a viral disease.
3. Accessibility to Vets and Owners
Not everyone should be allowed to visit a sick horse. This precaution should be taken to prevent exposure to any substance that could further harm the health of your horse. Also the vet and caretaker must wear gloves and boots exclusive for that stable while looking after your horse.
4. Keep a Track of Temperature
Keep a track of your horse’s temperature and other signs or symptoms and note them down so that the vet can have a clearer picture upon arrival. Proper medication and treatment as prescribed by the veterinarian are to be kept in check and regular dosages are to be supervised by the owner.
5. Hygiene
Parasites and diseases thrive most in a situation where dirt and filth prevails. Frequently cleaned stables, moved grass, nutritious diet, and proper grooming are all essentials that keep your horse in shape and ensure a healthier lifestyle. Clean halters (preferably nylon ones), Hoof picking, combing of the mane, brushing and not to forget, regular baths are what keeps your horse tidy and healthy.
6. Grooming
Grooming has surprisingly beneficial effects on your horse’s condition and it sometimes speeds up recovery.
7. Disinfect the Area
Once the disease breakout is dealt with, the stable where the sick horse was kept should be cleaned and disinfected. Make sure the soil is changed to avoid bacteria reoccurrence.
Falling sick is inevitable among horses just like it is in people, but adequate care and prevention can keep them safe, healthy, and lively. In case of any medical emergency at wee hours, transportation could be necessary so a contingency plan is always a must have too.
