Horses, members of the equine family, are mammals appreciated for their grace, strength and intelligence. They have played essential roles throughout human history, from aiding work and transportation to their use in warfare and recreation. Horses come in different breeds, from small to large, each with their unique characteristics.
They are herbivores with a complex digestive system adapted to a plant-based diet. Horses have hierarchical social behavior, with a dominant leader in each group. Their communication is primarily through body signals and vocalizations.
Today, horses are primarily used for recreational riding, equestrian sports, equine-assisted therapy, and even as pets. However, their maintenance and care require expertise to guarantee their well-being and health.
Yes, horses can be affectionate towards their owners and people with whom they have established close bonds. However, their expression of affection is different from more traditional pets like dogs and cats. Horses show affection by leaning slightly toward their owner, willingly following them, and accepting physical contact, such as petting and scratching. Each horse has its own personality, and some may be more inclined to show affection than others. Patience, trust and consistency in interactions with the horse are essential to strengthen emotional bonds.
The horse may be considered a pet in some cultures and regions of the world, but it differs from more traditional domestic animals like dogs and cats. Horses are often associated with sporting, leisure activities or agricultural work, which means they generally have a more utilitarian role than that of pets. However, many people develop strong, loving bonds with their horses, viewing them as partners and close friends. The care and maintenance of a horse can be demanding, and it is important to provide a suitable environment and meet their needs to ensure their well-being.
Horses possess many qualities valued by humans, including strength, loyalty, docility and intelligence. They are also known for their agility, speed, and ability to learn various tasks. Horses can form close bonds with their owners and are often used in sporting, recreational and therapeutic activities due to their calm nature and cooperative behavior. Their sense of observation and sensitivity to subtle signals from their environment make them valuable partners in various situations.
A horse’s character can vary greatly from one individual to another, just like in humans. Some horse breeds are known for their calm and docile temperaments, while others can be more energetic and spirited. Early socialization and training play an important role in the development of a horse’s character. A gentle, consistent and positive approach in training can help shape the horse’s behavior. Interactions with humans and the environment in which they live also have an influence on their character.
Care for a horse includes providing proper nutrition, shelter, exercise, grooming, regular medical care, and attention to its mental and emotional health. Horses require a balanced diet primarily consisting of hay or grass, as well as clean water at all times. They should be dewormed regularly and have access to dental care. Daily exercise is essential to maintain their physical and mental health. Grooming includes brushing the coat, cleaning the hooves, and controlling parasites. Owners should watch for signs of illness or pain and consult a veterinarian if any concerns arise.
To maintain a healthy horse, it is essential to provide a balanced diet, appropriate shelter, regular dental care, a deworming program, daily exercise and attention to emotional well-being. Regular visits to the veterinarian for vaccinations and health checkups are also crucial. It is important to provide a clean and safe environment, watch for signs of illness or pain, and respond quickly if a health problem arises. Horse owners should also ensure that their animals are protected against internal and external parasites.
The cost of maintaining a horse varies depending on many factors, including geographic region, equipment needed, quality of food, medical care, housing and infrastructure maintenance. In general, horses require a significant financial investment for their food, medical care and housing. Ongoing costs include food, hay, bedding, veterinary care, dewormers, farrier fees, grooming and exercise equipment, and equine insurance. Owners should also consider upfront costs such as purchasing the horse, equipment, shelter and fencing. It is important to budget carefully to ensure that maintaining a horse is financially viable.
Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS) is an increasingly common condition in recreational and sport horses, characterised by obesity, insulin resistance and repeated episodes of laminitis. Understanding the causes, symptoms, diagnostic methods and treatments of this disease is essential for owners and vets to ensure the well-being of equines. In this article, we will explore every aspect … Read more
Laminitis is a serious condition of equine hooves, often linked to other diseases. This condition, which can be fatal, requires immediate attention and appropriate care. What causes this condition? Foot problems are the main cause of lameness in older horses. Laminitis remains the most frequently diagnosed condition. A statistically significant association has been demonstrated between … Read more
For a more complete management of Cushing’s syndrome in horses, natural alternatives can be incorporated to complement drug treatment. These natural approaches can help support your horse’s immunity, musculature, joints and liver and kidney functions. Feed supplements Immuno RS: This supplement is particularly useful during the change of season. It helps to strengthen the horse’s … Read more
Cushing’s syndrome, also known as Pituitary Pars Intermedia Dysfunction (PPID), is an endocrine disease that particularly affects older horses. It is caused by a hormonal imbalance that can seriously affect your horse’s health and quality of life. What causes this disease? Cushing’s syndrome is mainly due to a dysfunction of thehypothalamic-pituitary axis, which comprises two … Read more
Emphysema in horses, also known as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), is a common respiratory condition that can significantly affect an animal’s quality of life. The condition is characterised by chronic inflammation of the airways, leading to airflow obstruction and breathing difficulty. The management of an emphysematous horse requires a multidisciplinary approach including environmental adjustments, … Read more
Emphysema in horses, also known as “sprouting”, is a chronic respiratory disease that seriously compromises the animal’s ability to exhale air from its lungs. This condition, similar to asthma in humans, can seriously affect a horse’s quality of life and performance. What causes this disease? Emphysema, scientifically known as obstructive deep airway disease, results mainly … Read more
Recurrent equine summer dermatitis (RESD ) is a chronic, itchy skin condition that affects many horses, ponies and donkeys. Characterised by intense itching and skin lesions, this seasonal condition can become a real nightmare for equine owners. In this article, we explore the causes, symptoms, diagnostic methods, available treatments and preventive measures to combat this … Read more
Colic in horses is one of the health problems most feared by owners. As the leading cause of equine mortality, it requires special attention and in-depth knowledge. In this article, we will explore the infectious agents responsible, the symptoms, methods of diagnosis, available treatments and means of prevention to help you protect your horses from … Read more
Gastric ulcers are a common condition in horses, having a significant impact on their health and performance. Find out more about the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment and prevention of this condition. What is an ulcer? Gastric ulcers are a common condition in adult horses. This condition, also known as equine gastric ulcer syndrome, comprises two … Read more
The term “Piro-Like syndrome” is used to describe a range of symptoms caused by vector-borne diseases in equidae. External animals such as ticks or rodents carry these diseases. They are not transmitted directly from one horse to another. The differential diagnosis of this syndrome includes five diseases: piroplasmosis, anaplasmosis, Lyme disease, leptospirosis and Equine Infectious … Read more
Blood stroke, also known as rhabdomyolysis in horses, is a serious pathological condition affecting the skeletal muscles of equines. Characterised by the rapid destruction of muscle cells, this syndrome can lead to severe pain, stiffness and locomotor disability. Horse owners and vets need to be aware of the warning signs and understand the risk factors … Read more
Sarcoids are the most common skin tumour in horses, representing a significant challenge for owners and vets. These benign but persistent lesions can appear anywhere on the animal’s body, affecting quality of life and, in some cases, performance. This article explores in depth the different forms of sarcoid, diagnostic methods, available treatment options and prevention … Read more