Equine Husbandry Flashcards
What is Domestication?
The Process of taking a species and allowing it to thrive and survive in captivity
What is the mutual co-evolution between humans and horses?
Horses can feed off fields and protect from predators and over time they become more social and less aggressive
What horses are stabled?
If they are active in controlled exercise, there is insufficient land for pasture, if they are under veterinary supervision
What must stables be?
Comfortable, have ease of access and adequate drainage and ventilation
What can poor stable design lead to?
respiratory diseases
How often should stables be checked?
Twice a day
What do horses need adequate space for?
Lying down rising and turning around
What space do horses ponies and foals need?
12x12, 10x10, 14x14
What are the main considerations for a stable?
Wide doors, height, no sharp edges, non-slip flooring
What are the two types of stabling?
Open or American barn (open has better ventilation but less cover)
What must horse bedding provide?
Warmth, protection, non-toxic and not dusty
Straw bedding
Cheap but dusty
Shavings as bedding
More expensive but comfortable
Rubber matting as bedding
not the most comfortable or warm but easier to clean
Communal barns
Groups of horses kept together
Must provide-
» Adequate access to hay, feed and water
» Sufficient space to lie down
Select groups that are compatible
Segregate aggressive horses
What is involved in the pasture management programme?
Avoid overgrazing
Help with worm control
Maintain good drainage
Control weeds
What should pasture fences be?
Strong and high enough to prevent escape!
Designed and maintained with no sharp
projections
What fencing can be used?
Electric, Wooden and Vinyl
What fencing shouldn’t be used?
Barbed wire
What do horses need to be able to shelter from?
Wind, Sun and Flies
What are the two types of shelter?
man made or natural
What horses need a rug in winter?
Less hardy breeds, Clipped or Elderly
What are the important factors when choosing a rug?
- Correct fit and type
- Regularly removed to check underneath
- Ensure horse not too hot or cold
Ragwort
very toxic for horses and must be removed
- can result in fatal liver disease
Buttercups
Less toxic but can cause liver damage
What is Tethering?
Securing an animal by an chain to a centre point or
anchorage causing it to be confined to a desired area
What are the issues with tethering?
Not suitable for long term management
» Risk of horse becoming entangled or injuring itself
» Regular supervision important
* At least every 6 hours