Horses are pets too!

Horses are obiously aslo epts, but not the first you would associate as a 'pet'. They need to be cared for in exactly the same way as any other animal, so below if a little bit of information regarding how to care for these intellogent and wonderful animals...

Horses must have a large field to graze in, a minimum of one acre, so there's room for at least one equaine companion.

They will also need a stable (or something similar) to provide shelter from the harsher winter weather and shade in the summer.
If you don't have your own grazing land, private grazing land can be rented or purchased.
Alternatively, there are many local livery yards. Livery yards offer lots of companions for your horse and often more security. However, you will need to abide by the yard manager's rules which may not suit your style of husbandry.

Horses are herd animals and need another companion of the same species to act out their natural herd behaviour.
Horses kept alone will not feel safe, may become distressed and lose their appetite. This will lead to a loss of condition, malnutrition and poor performance.
Horses do not usually mix well with other animals. When kept in a pair or group there will always be a herd leader who cares for the other horses in field. Horses have been known to chase foxes and dogs out of their field so take care when introducing dogs to your horses.
If your paddocks are fairly small it is best not to mix other grazing species (such as sheep) with horses as the horse may feel its food source is being threatened and injuries to the other animal could occur.

Horses and ponies need a structure to their day. They need to know what is expected of them, what boundaries have been set and when food is arriving. They also need the company of other horses and will need to see outside to stimulate their interest.
Their behaviour can vary enormously depending on their background. So, if you have rehomed a horse that has had a bad start in life then you may need to be more patient, have lower expectations and be more understanding in the way you approach them.
Horses and ponies thrive when in a routine. They need consistent and fair handling. If you are temperamental, rough or abrupt with your horse, you should expect the same behaviour from them. Try to be consistent in your approach so you don’t confuse the animal.
At the same time, you need to be assertive for the animal to have confidence in you. If you are nervous the animal will sense this and could become agitated.

 

Horses are a long term commitment with some breeds living up to 40 years., this can lead to considerable finanical implications.
Horses require a lot of time and energy spent on them. Even horses that are turned out all day and night should be checked at least twice a day. This may mean changing rugs, checking water, feeding, hoof picking, grooming and performing daily health checks. Horses should be carefully checked everyday for lumps, bumps, cuts and lameness as well as general wellbeing.