When it comes to your horse, many times the cause of stress can

be laid at our attempts to over manage their movements and

natural activity. Horses are not solitary animals by nature and are

more comfortable when in a herd or with “friends.” This creates a

secure environment in that while some sleep or rest, there is

always that one that keeps watch for predators. Without this

important aspect, your horse may not be able to relax, eventhough

you provide a comfortable and safe environment. So give them a

friend such as a mini or a goat that will socialize and provide

companionship.

 

It is also important to spend personal time with your horse every day.

Grooming, petting, touching all help keep your horse calm and centered.

 

Did you know that horses in the wild will travel approximately 5 miles a

day grazing? It’s a good idea to turn them out every day, or make time to exercise them to release stored energy in the muscles.

 

Feed is another thing that can increase stress in your horse. Be careful not to get caught up in the latest and greatest scientific breakthrough in feeds. You will find that marketing is directed at you, trying to make you comfortable rather than what’s actually best for your horse. In the wild they eat grass, leaves, sticks and bark. If you let them free graze in a beautiful field of oats you’ll find that they don’t feed on the oats themselves, but look for the grass on the ground.

 

Our management schemes that keep these animals from their normal activity and natural behavior can cause a range of signs related to stress such as:

Acute Stress – Elevated head and neck position, ears pricked tightly forward, showing the white area around the eye, staring intensely, increased breathing and heart rate

Chronic Stress - Aggression / irritability, extreme / regular fear responses, certain chronic health problems, weight loss / weight gain, decreased appetite, flightiness, unwillingness to work.

 

These may be signs easily recognized, however there are subtle signs that may not be so apparent, such as: head tossing, weaving, cribbing, or pawing from worry, boredom, or physical discomfort. In fact, you may have a time bomb on your hands if your horse has:

1. Shut down or is never calm.

2. Will not make eye contact with you and have tight lips.

3. Is unfriendly and has no friends.

 

Noticing these signs of stress are important for your horses health and your safety. Spending quality time every day with your horse and providing a more natural way of life for him, will go a long way in developing a proper attitude and relationship between you and your horse.