Horse Training and Health: A Complete Guide to Equine Wellness and Horsemanship E-Book

Artemis Saage

• Herausgeber: tredition
• Kategorie: Lebensstil
• Serie: Horse
• Sprache: Englisch

Seitenzahl: 248

Veröffentlichungsjahr: 2024

Beschreibung

Discover the fascinating world of horses with this comprehensive guide covering all essential aspects of horse care, training, and horsemanship. Whether you're a novice horse owner or an experienced equestrian, this book provides valuable information for maintaining optimal equine health and developing strong riding skills. The guide begins with fundamental horse care principles, including detailed sections on nutrition, feeding schedules, and proper stable management. Learn about different horse breeds, their characteristics, and specific care requirements to make informed decisions about horse ownership and care. A substantial portion focuses on equine health and wellness, covering common diseases, preventive care, and emergency first aid. The book includes detailed illustrations of equine anatomy and explains how to recognize early signs of health issues. You'll find practical advice on vaccination schedules, deworming strategies, and when to seek veterinary assistance. The training section provides step-by-step guidance on various riding techniques and horsemanship skills. From basic groundwork to advanced riding disciplines, readers will learn effective methods for building trust and communication with their horses. The book explores different training approaches suitable for various horse types and temperaments. Special attention is given to understanding horse behavior and body language, helping readers develop stronger bonds with their equine partners. Learn to interpret subtle signals and respond appropriately to enhance your horse's wellness and training progress. The final chapters cover specific riding disciplines, including dressage, show jumping, and trail riding, with detailed information on proper equipment selection and maintenance. Whether you're interested in recreational riding or horse racing, this guide provides the knowledge needed for safe and enjoyable horsemanship. Enhanced with clear photographs and illustrations, this book serves as a practical reference for anyone committed to providing excellent care for their horses while developing their riding abilities.

Leseprobe

Artemis Saage

Horse Training and Health: A Complete Guide to Equine Wellness and HorsemanshipMaster Horse Riding, Learn Essential Horse Care Techniques, and Understand Horse Breeds for Better Training and Health Management

311 Sources 41 Photos / Graphics

© 2024 Saage Media GmbH

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Imprint

Saage Media GmbH c/o SpinLab – The HHL Accelerator Spinnereistraße 7 04179 Leipzig, Germany E-Mail: [email protected] Web: SaageMedia.com Commercial Register: Local Court Leipzig, HRB 42755 (Handelsregister: Amtsgericht Leipzig, HRB 42755) Managing Director: Rico Saage (Geschäftsführer) VAT ID Number: DE369527893 (USt-IdNr.)

Publisher: Saage Media GmbH

Publication: 12.2024

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ISBN Softcover: 978-3-384-45089-0

ISBN Ebook: 978-3-384-45090-6

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The references and quotations contained in this book have been carefully researched and reproduced in essence. The interpretation and presentation of the cited content reflects the author's understanding and does not necessarily align with the intention or opinion of the original authors. For paraphrased quotations, the core statements of the original sources have been incorporated into the context of this work to the best of knowledge and belief, but may deviate from the original wording and nuances of meaning due to translation and simplification. All sources used are fully listed in the bibliography and can be consulted there in their original form. The responsibility for the interpretation and contextual integration of the cited content lies with the author of this book. For scientific inquiries and detailed information, it is recommended to consult the original sources. The author has endeavored to present complex scientific matters in a generally comprehensible manner. Simplifications and generalizations cannot be excluded in this process. No guarantee can be given for the technical accuracy and completeness of the simplified presentations. The paraphrased reproduction of quotations and scientific findings is done to the best of knowledge and belief in compliance with citation rights according to § 51 of the Copyright Act. When simplifying and transferring and, where applicable, translating scientific content into generally comprehensible language, nuances of meaning and technical details may be lost. For academic purposes and when using as a scientific reference, it is explicitly recommended to refer to the original sources. The simplified presentation serves exclusively for popular science information.

The information contained in this book regarding horse care, horse health, and riding has been carefully researched and compiled to the best of our knowledge and belief. Nevertheless, regulations, medical insights, and treatment methods may change over time. This book does not replace veterinary treatment or professional advice from qualified riding instructors and horse experts. In case of health issues with your horse, please always consult a veterinarian. It is strongly recommended for beginners to undertake practical training only under expert guidance in a qualified riding school. The author and publisher assume no liability for personal, material, or financial damages arising from the application of the described methods, techniques, and advice. The use of the information is at your own risk. All medications, treatment methods, and equipment mentioned in the book are for informational purposes only. Their application should only be carried out after consultation with professionals. Dosage information has been carefully checked, but no guarantee can be provided. The brand and product names used are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners. References to scientific studies and specialized literature can be found in the appendix of the book.

This book was created using artificial intelligence and other tools. Among other things, tools were used for research and generating decorative illustrations. Despite checks, errors cannot be completely ruled out. We would like to emphasize that the use of AI serves as a supporting tool to provide our readers with a high-quality and inspiring reading experience.

This book has been translated from German. Deviations from the original or translation errors cannot be completely ruled out. All sources linked in the book are available in English. We assume no liability for any content inaccuracies or misunderstandings that may have arisen through translation.

Table of ContentsImprintintroduction1 Basics of Horse Care1.1 Feeding and Nutrition1.1.1 Basic food for horses1.1.2 Feeding times and quantities1.1.3 Water supply1.1.4 Special nutritional needs1.1.5 Pasture management and grass intake1.2 Stable Hygiene and Care1.2.1 Daily cleaning routines1.2.2 Bedding and floor conditions1.2.3 Coat care and brushing1.2.4 Parasite control1.2.5 Seasonal care aspects1.3 Exercise and Training1.3.1 Importance of regular exercise1.3.2 Turnout and paddock management1.3.3 Basics of horse training1.3.4 Different training methods1.3.5 Adapting training to age and condition2 Horse Health and Medicine2.1 Common Diseases2.1.1 Respiratory diseases2.1.2 Digestive disorders2.1.3 Lameness and joint problems2.1.4 Skin diseases2.1.5 Metabolic disorders2.2 Preventive Measures2.2.1 Regular veterinary examinations2.2.2 Vaccination programs2.2.3 Deworming strategies2.2.4 Stress reduction2.2.5 Adapting care to age and health condition2.3 First Aid2.3.1 Recognizing emergency situations2.3.2 Basic first aid kit equipment2.3.3 Treatment of cuts and bruises2.3.4 Dealing with colic2.3.5 When to call the veterinarian3 Horse Understanding and Communication3.1 Body Language3.1.1 Ear position and its meaning3.1.2 Tail position and movements3.1.3 Facial expressions3.1.4 Body posture in different situations3.1.5 Vocalizations and their interpretation3.2 Relationship Building3.2.1 Trust-building measures3.2.2 Consistency in handling3.2.3 Positive reinforcement3.2.4 Respectful leadership3.2.5 Setting and maintaining boundaries3.3 Natural Behavior3.3.1 Herd dynamics and social structures3.3.2 Feeding behavior and foraging3.3.3 Rest and sleep habits3.3.4 Play behavior in horses3.3.5 Flight and defense reactions4 Riding and Equestrian Sports4.1 Basics of Riding4.1.1 Correct seat position4.1.2 Aid giving and influence4.1.3 Gaits and their characteristics4.1.4 Safety while riding4.1.5 Handling difficult situations in the saddle4.2 Equipment4.2.1 Choosing the right saddle4.2.2 Bridles and bits4.2.3 Protective equipment for horse and rider4.2.4 Care and maintenance of equipment4.2.5 Alternative riding equipment4.3 Riding Disciplines4.3.1 Dressage4.3.2 Show jumping4.3.3 Eventing4.3.4 Western riding4.3.5 Endurance ridingSourcesImage Sources

Dear readers,

I sincerely thank you for choosing this book. With your choice, you have not only given me your trust but also a part of your valuable time. I truly appreciate that.

Horses are fascinating beings that enrich our lives as loyal companions through sport and leisure. However, their proper care and management present many horse owners with complex challenges. This comprehensive manual offers well-founded insights into all important aspects of modern horse keeping—from correct feeding and preventive health care to effective training methods. Particularly valuable are the practical guidelines for interpreting equine body language and building a trusting human-horse relationship. Benefit from detailed instructions on stable hygiene, familiarize yourself with common health issues, and receive valuable tips for various riding disciplines. The combination of scientifically grounded expertise and years of practical experience makes this guide a reliable resource for your daily work with horses. A practice-oriented companion that helps you better understand your horse's needs and respond optimally. Discover now how you can provide your horse with a species-appropriate and healthy life.

I now wish you an inspiring and insightful reading experience. If you have any suggestions, criticism, or questions, I welcome your feedback. Only through active exchange with you, the readers, can future editions and works become even better. Stay curious!

Artemis Saage Saage Media GmbH [email protected]ße 7 - c/o SpinLab – The HHL Accelerator, 04179 Leipzig, Germany

Introduction

To provide you with the best possible reading experience, we would like to familiarize you with the key features of this book. The chapters are arranged in a logical sequence, allowing you to read the book from beginning to end. At the same time, each chapter and subchapter has been designed as a standalone unit, so you can also selectively read specific sections that are of particular interest to you. Each chapter is based on careful research and includes comprehensive references throughout. All sources are directly linked, allowing you to delve deeper into the subject matter if interested. Images integrated into the text also include appropriate source citations and links. A complete overview of all sources and image credits can be found in the linked appendix. To effectively convey the most important information, each chapter concludes with a concise summary. Technical terms are underlined in the text and explained in a linked glossary placed directly below. For quick access to additional online content, you can scan the QR codes with your smartphone.

Additional bonus materials on our website

We provide the following exclusive materials on our website:

Bonus content and additional chaptersA compact overall summaryA PDF file with all referencesFurther reading recommendations

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SaageBooks.com/horse-bonus-IGQNIY

1. Basics of Horse Care

The appropriate housing and care of horses requires in-depth knowledge and practical experience. How can optimal nutrition be ensured? What role do regular exercise and systematic training play in health? And how can the daily care routine be designed efficiently and in a horse-friendly manner? The fundamentals of horse care encompass central aspects such as needs-based feeding, a well-thought-out exercise routine, and systematic health care. It is essential to consider both the species-specific needs and the individual requirements of each horse. Successful horse care is based on the interplay of various factors—from the choice of the right bedding to effective pasture management and age-appropriate training design. The following chapters provide the most important fundamentals and offer practical tips for daily work with horses.

1. 1. Feeding and Nutrition

Die richtige Ernährung eines Pferdes stellt Halter vor vielfältige Herausforderungen: Wie viel Raufutter benötigt ein Pferd täglich? Welche Rolle spielen Mineralien und Spurenelemente für die Gesundheit? Und wie lässt sich die Fütterung optimal an Alter, Nutzung und individuelle Bedürfnisse anpassen? Als Pflanzenfresser und Dauerfresser ist das Verdauungssystem des Pferdes auf eine kontinuierliche Aufnahme faserreicher Nahrung ausgelegt. Eine artgerechte und ausgewogene Ernährung bildet das Fundament für Gesundheit, Leistungsfähigkeit und Wohlbefinden. In diesem Kapitel erfahren Sie, wie Sie die Ernährung Ihres Pferdes wissenschaftlich fundiert und praxisorientiert gestalten können.

„An adult horse requires at least 30 liters of water daily; during intense work or high temperatures, the demand can be significantly higher.“

1. 1. 1. Basic Food for Horses

The basic food for horses forms the foundation of a species-appropriate diet that aligns with the natural needs of these herbivores. The most important basic food is water, which must be available to horses at all times in sufficient quantity and clean quality [s1]. An adult horse requires at least 30 liters of water daily; during intense work or high temperatures, the demand can be significantly higher [s2]. Roughage in the form of hay or pasture grass constitutes the second essential pillar of horse nutrition. As herbivores, horses are designed to consume the majority of their food (at least 50%) in the form of fiber-rich materials [s3]. A 500 kg horse should receive about 11-12 kg of high-quality hay daily, divided into several small portions [s2]. When selecting hay, attention should be paid to a bright color, leafy structure, and mold-free quality [s4]. The digestion of horses is adapted to a continuous intake of small amounts of feed [s5]. Therefore, the daily feed ration should be divided into at least three, preferably four to six meals. This not only promotes saliva production but also prevents digestive disorders. A practical tip is to use hay nets with small mesh sizes, which slow down feed intake and extend the time spent feeding. Carbohydrates play an important role as energy suppliers [s6]. They are divided into structural (fiber) and non-structural (sugar and starch) carbohydrates. While fibers are fermented in the large intestine by bacteria, sugars and starches are already broken down in the small intestine. Caution should be exercised when feeding grains as energy sources—not every horse requires additional concentrated feed. A guideline is that the amount of concentrated feed per meal should not exceed 1 kg [s7]. Proteins are essential for muscle building and tissue renewal. The protein requirement of an adult horse is 8-12% of the total ration, while for growing horses, it is 12-18% [s1]. High-quality hay, especially legume hay like alfalfa, can already cover a large part of the protein requirement [s7]. Fats are valuable as a concentrated energy source and support the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. However, they should not make up more than 10% of the total ration [s3]. In practical implementation, it has proven effective to gradually introduce oil over several days to avoid digestive disturbances. Vitamins and minerals are important in balanced amounts for various metabolic processes. For horses with access to pasture and high-quality hay, additional supplementation is often unnecessary [s8]. An exception is made for horses with high workloads or specific health requirements. An important practical aspect is the regular monitoring of feed quality and quantity. Changes in feeding should always be made slowly over 7-14 days to minimize the risk of digestive disturbances [s2]. Observing manure, appetite, and body condition provides important insights into the adequacy of feeding. It is particularly important to note that feeding must be individually adjusted to the horse's age, weight, type of use, and health status [s8]. A leisure horse has different needs than a sport horse, and a young horse has different needs than a senior. Therefore, regular review and adjustment of the ration is essential.

1. 1. 2. Feeding Times and Quantities

The proper timing and measurement of quantities in horse feeding is fundamental for the health and well-being of the animals. Horses are naturally designed to consume small amounts of feed continuously throughout the day. A regular, predictable feeding schedule reduces stress and provides important orientation in the daily routine [s9]. The total amount of feed should be between 1.5% and 2.5% of the horse's body weight, depending on the quality of the feed and the physiological condition of the horse [s10]. For a horse weighing 500 kg, this corresponds to a daily total feed amount of 7.5-12.5 kg. It is important to note that the roughage amount should never fall below 0.75% of the body weight to avoid digestive problems [s11]. A practical tip is to always weigh the feed instead of estimating by volume [s12]. The feeding frequency has a direct impact on eating behavior: studies show that with 8 meals a day, the feed intake per meal is lower, and the horses chew more calmly and for longer [s13]. In practice, at least 3-4 feedings per day are recommended, ideally more. Many stable operators have had good experiences with automatic feeders that allow for more frequent feeding. When it comes to concentrate feeding, the important rule of thumb is to feed no more than 0.5% of the body weight per meal [s12]. For a 500 kg horse, this means a maximum of 2.5 kg of concentrate per meal. Distributing this over several small portions is essential. Special attention is required in specific situations such as feeding foals or undernourished horses. Foals need about 2-3% of their body weight in daily feed intake [s14]. In the rehabilitation of undernourished horses, the feed amount must be increased very carefully and gradually to avoid the dangerous Refeeding Syndrome[s15]. In such cases, one starts with small, frequent portions of fiber-rich feed and gradually increases the amount over several weeks. For horses on pasture, it is important to offer hay in addition [s16]. This allows the animals to regulate their fiber intake themselves. A practical approach is to offer hay in nets with different mesh sizes, which can regulate the eating speed. The amount of feed should be regularly adjusted to the horse's condition [s12]. A proven tool is the regular documentation of weight and Body Condition Score. In group housing, special attention should be paid to ensure that lower-ranking animals can consume enough feed. Establishing multiple feeding stations that are at least 1.5 horse lengths apart has proven effective. For practical implementation, a detailed feeding plan that considers the individual needs of each horse is recommended. This should include the exact feeding times, feed quantities, and any special considerations. Changes in the feeding regime should always be introduced slowly over several days to give the digestive system time to adjust.

GlossaryBody Condition ScoreA standardized scoring system from 1-9 that allows for the objective assessment of a horse's nutritional condition by palpating specific body areas. The optimal value usually lies between 5-6.Refeeding SyndromeA potentially life-threatening metabolic disorder that can occur when undernourished animals are fed normally too quickly. This results in a dangerous drop in phosphate, potassium, and magnesium levels in the blood.

️ [i1]Feeding behavior

1. 1. 3. Water Supply

The water supply for horses is a complex and vital topic that deserves special attention. Horses exhibit a characteristic drinking behavior as episodic and circadian drinkers - they take long sips with many small gulps several times a day [s17]. An average horse weighing about 450 kg requires approximately 23-38 liters (6-10 gallons) of water daily [s18]. However, this requirement can vary significantly. Water intake is influenced by various factors. Horses that primarily eat hay and grain require significantly more water than horses on lush pasture [s18]. During intense work or high temperatures, the water requirement can increase to 57-76 liters (15-20 gallons) per day [s19]. Particularly lactating mares have a 50-80% increased water requirement [s18]. For the practical implementation of optimal water supply, there are various options: buckets, troughs, or automatic water dispensers are all suitable [s20]. Regular cleaning of the drinking troughs is essential. A practical tip is to check water levels and inspect troughs for contamination daily during stable visits. Automatic troughs should also be tested for functionality weekly. In winter, the water supply presents particular challenges. It is essential to prevent the freezing of water sources [s21]. Heated troughs or special heating rods have proven effective. A cost-effective alternative for buckets is to regularly refill them with warm water or to use floating balls that prevent complete freezing. In athletic use, the water supply is especially important. During intense work, water and electrolytes should be offered regularly in small amounts [s19]. After training, it is advisable to provide warm water at frequent intervals [s22]. A well-established practical tip is to soak hay in water after intense work, which additionally promotes water intake. Monitoring hydration is essential. Signs of dehydration include delayed skin recoil and darker urine [s17]. A simple test is the skin fold test on the neck: when the skin is pulled up, it should immediately return to its original position. If the fold remains for a longer time, this indicates a lack of fluids. Water quality plays an important role. Fresh, clean, and cool water is most attractive to horses [s17]. Ice-cold water should be avoided for overheated, sweaty horses [s23]. Contrary to previous assumptions, horses can also drink when overheated - there is no scientific evidence that they must cool down first [s18]. To promote water intake, sodium chloride can be added to the feed [s17]. Caution is advised with electrolyte supplementation: it should not be forced if the horse is already dehydrated [s22]. Electrolytes are particularly important during prolonged work or competitions in heat [s20]. Proper hydration is fundamental for many bodily functions, including material transport to and from cells and tissue repair [s23]. Insufficient water intake can lead to colic [s20], which is why the continuous availability of fresh water is essential.

1. 1. 4. Special Nutritional Needs

The special nutritional needs of horses vary significantly and must be tailored individually, especially for older animals, horses with metabolic disorders, or other health limitations. Careful adjustment of the diet is crucial for the health and well-being of these animals [s24]. Older horses present a particular challenge. Their ability to digest and absorb nutrients decreases with age [s24]. A common issue is dental health—regular "Floating" (professional smoothing of sharp tooth edges) is essential for optimal feed intake [s25]. For chewing and digestive problems, feeding soaked beet pulp has proven to be a valuable supplement. It is easily digestible and high in fiber [s25].

For horses with metabolic disorders such as the Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS), a strictly controlled diet is essential [s26]. The ration should be low in sugar and starch to avoid blood sugar spikes. In practice, this means: - Limiting grazing time, especially on lush pastures - Using special high-fiber hay with low sugar content - Distributing the daily ration into many small portions - Regular exercise to support metabolism

When grazing, special care is required. While healthy horses can meet most of their nutritional needs through grazing [s27], the grazing management for horses with special needs must be adjusted. A proven approach is the use of grazing muzzles or limiting grazing time to the early morning hours when the sugar content in the grass is lowest. For horses with joint problems, avoiding overweight is particularly important [s28]. The feed ration should be energetically adjusted but contain all necessary nutrients. Additionally, special joint supplements may be beneficial. A practical tip is to use feed scales and regularly monitor the Body Condition Scores. Creating an individual feeding plan should always be done in consultation with a veterinarian or qualified nutritionist [s26]. It is important to establish a feeding budget that considers the horse's special needs while remaining economically viable [s29].

In the practical implementation of special feeding plans, the following measures have proven effective: - Keeping a feeding diary to document feed amounts and reactions - Regular weight checks using a measuring tape or scale - Adjusting feeding in small increments - Observing manure consistency and appetite

Feeding must be specifically tailored to the individual horse [s30]. What is optimal for one horse may be unsuitable or even harmful for another. Especially in older horses, needs can vary greatly—while some require little adjustment, others need a completely revised feeding strategy [s25].

GlossaryBody Condition ScoreA standardized scoring system from 1-9 used to assess a horse's nutritional status based on fat deposition and musculature.Equine Metabolic SyndromeA metabolic disorder in horses characterized by insulin resistance, obesity, and an increased risk of laminitis.FloatingA dental treatment for horses in which special rasps are used to smooth the chewing surfaces of the molars to ensure better chewing function.

1. 1. 5. Pasture Management and Grass Intake

Pasture management is a central aspect of natural horse nutrition and plays an important role in health and well-being. Wild horses derive approximately 65% of their diet from grasses and reeds, 25% from shrubs, and a smaller proportion from herbs [s31]. This natural feeding behavior should also be considered for domesticated horses. Horses are very selective grazers and deliberately choose specific plant species [s31]. This can lead to overgrazing of palatable species when pasture space is limited. Therefore, thoughtful pasture management is essential. In practice, a rotational system has proven effective, where pastures are grazed and rested alternately. The grass sward should not be grazed shorter than 10-15 cm (4-6 inches) to allow for regeneration [s32]. The quality and composition of the pasture directly influence feed intake. Higher quality forage is better utilized, presumably due to improved digestibility [s33]. It should be noted that horses often consume less feed when grazing than when stabled, as they require more time to graze [s33]. This should be taken into account when planning rations. Sandy soils require special attention. There is a risk of sand colic due to ingested sand. Preventively, a dense grass sward should be maintained, and overgrazing should be avoided [s32]. A practical tip is to offer hay on solid surfaces or in hay nets above the ground. Nutrient supply from the pasture varies significantly with the seasons. In spring and autumn, the sugar content of grasses is often high, which can be problematic for metabolically sensitive horses. In such cases, limiting grazing time to the early morning hours is advisable. The use of grazing muzzles can also be helpful. In cold weather, horses naturally increase their feed intake to meet the higher energy demands [s31]. This should be considered in pasture management. Additional roughage may need to be provided. Inadequate roughage supply can lead to behavioral disorders such as wood chewing or coprophagia [s34]. Pasture management offers an important preventive approach, as it supports natural feeding behavior and provides sufficient engagement. The acceptance of various forage plants varies and influences daily intake [s35]. Therefore, when establishing pastures, attention should be paid to a balanced species composition. In addition to grasses, certain herbs and legumes can meaningfully complement the forage offer. Professional pasture management also includes regular fertilization and maintenance, especially on nutrient-poor soils [s32]. Documenting grazing times and conducting regular inspections of pasture areas help maintain quality in the long term. Pasture management must always be individually adapted to the needs of the horses and the local conditions. Factors such as body weight and type of use significantly influence feed intake [s33]. Therefore, regular review and adjustment of pasture management is essential for successful and healthy pasture management.

GlossaryGrass SwardThe upper layer of soil, interwoven with grass roots, forming a dense plant mat. An intact grass sward protects the soil from erosion and provides horses with a stable grazing area.Grazing MuzzleA special muzzle for horses that regulates grass intake but does not completely prevent it. Allows controlled grazing for overweight or metabolically sensitive horses.LegumeLeguminous plants such as clover or alfalfa that enrich the soil with nitrogen and are particularly high in protein. They improve soil quality and increase the nutritional value of the pasture.

️ [i2]Pasture management

️ [i3]Grass grazing

Summary - 1. 1. Feeding and Nutrition

An adult horse requires at least 30 liters of water daily, significantly more during intense work. A 500 kg horse should receive about 11-12 kg of high-quality hay each day. The protein requirement for an adult horse is 8-12% of the total ration, while for growing horses, it is 12-18%. Fats should not constitute more than 10% of the total ration. The total feed amount should be between 1.5% and 2.5% of body weight. With 8 meals a day, the feed intake per meal is lower, and the horses chew more calmly. No more than 0.5% of body weight should be fed per concentrate meal. A 450 kg horse requires about 23-38 liters of water daily. Lactating mares have a 50-80% increased water requirement. Wild horses derive about 65% of their diet from grasses and reeds, and 25% from shrubs. The grass sward should not be grazed shorter than 10-15 cm. Horses are episodic and circadian drinkers - they take long sips several times a day, with many small gulps.

1. 2. Stable Hygiene and Care

The health and well-being of horses are significantly dependent on the quality of their housing environment. But what factors actually determine optimal stable hygiene? How can the care effort be managed efficiently without neglecting important aspects? And what role do daily routines play in handling the animals? A systematic approach to hygiene and care is a complex task that goes far beyond mere mucking out and cleaning. It involves a thoughtful interplay of various components—from the choice of the right bedding to effective cleaning routines and targeted parasite control. Both the individual needs of the horses and practical aspects of implementation must be taken into account. The following sections illustrate how scientific findings and practical experiences can be combined into a coherent hygiene concept that benefits both the horses and their owners.

„The daily mucking out should ideally be done twice a day - in the morning and in the evening - with horse droppings and wet bedding being completely removed.“

1. 2. 1. Daily Cleaning Routines

The daily cleaning routine forms the foundation of effective stable hygiene and is crucial for the health of the horses. A systematic and thorough execution of these routine tasks prevents the spread of pathogens and creates a pleasant stable environment [s36]. The day begins with the most important element of stable hygiene: mucking out. This involves completely removing horse droppings and wet bedding. Ideally, this should be done twice a day - in the morning and in the evening. It is particularly important to thoroughly clean the corners of the stable, as moisture and associated pathogens often accumulate there [s37]. While the use of stable mats reduces the amount of bedding needed, regular and thorough cleaning remains essential [s38]. After removing the coarse dirt, the basic cleaning of stable surfaces follows. Walls, floors, and doors are scrubbed with a foaming cleaning agent and a stiff brush [s39]. It is especially important to ensure that all surfaces are thoroughly cleaned, as dirt residues can impair subsequent disinfection