Abu Shariff's Stables

   Horses are known to be very inteligent.Its very important that us horse owners understand the fundamentals of horse care.So we can own and raise our loving  horses,in a healthy way.We must understand horse behavior,when we are around our horses,and we must not underestimate the safety for both horses and humans.

Horse management.

Its natural,that horses are designed for open spaces and love the companionship of other horses.Horses are grazing animals,and need the exercise,if it be riding or out in the fields.Even horses are inteligent enough and know when they are in need of companionship,they will become restless and unhappy.

The pasture.

The field should be checked for rubbish lying around,or any danger such as extra metal hanging from fencesAlways have a well secured fence,so your horse cannot escape,as thats the worst thing that could happen .Awire fence is fine but as i said just check to see  that there isnt any loose wire sticking out.Even a wood fence goes well.But never use barbed wire.

Poisonous plants.

Those are the most harmful are;Yew,Ragwort,Fox glove,Oak leaves,Acorns,Buttercups,Bracken,Privet,Laurel,Meadow saffron,Locoweed,Castor bean,Star thistle,Horse tail,Sorghum and Red maple.http://www.freewebs.com/horse-tendon/poisonousplants.htmThese are just a few of the many poisonous plants.Always check if updated toxics are discovered.For more information contact your local eqine veterinarian.    

Shelter.

If you are thinking about building your own shelter or stables,then take this advice from me and build the back of the structure so it faces the wind.Your horse needs to be protected from the wind,sun and rain depending on the seasons and the area you live in.

Water.

Always provide your loving horse with fresh water.If you use a bucket,it always seems to fall over,so i would sugest placing a tire with the bucket inside and that should do the trick.There is a reason to be concerned in winter as horses drink less,or should i say little.There are lots of new heaters on the market.The important tip to remember is'If you wouldn't drink the water,then don't ask your horse to'.

Bedding.

If your horse is kept in a barn or stable,always lay down proper bedding.Sometimes your horse likes to lay down and rest or have a quick roll,even standing most of the day on a hard floor isnt nice.Hemp is becoming popular,also there is the rubber mat which provides no warmth until you place straw on top.Straw is the most traditional choice,its so warm,comfortable and also very cheap

Cleaning your horses stables.

So if your horse dosen't get out much,then wow,you will have alot of dropping to remove.So you will need a few tools to get that job done.You will need a wheelbarrow,a shovel and a rack.Try to keep the clean straw to the cleaner area.Once you have removed all the dropping,then even out the clean straw around the floor of the stable.And add a little extra when needed.Always try to clean in the warmest part of the day ,this helps the stable to dry out better.

Grooming.

Grooming daily is a must and you will see the great bond created between the two of you.Your horse will just love every moment of it.Try not to over groom as the natural greese which is in the coat helps keep the horse warm.

Cold comfort.

The winter haircoat of the horse is allowed to grow in the colder weather.When its cold,tiny muscles in the skin make the hair stand up,increasing the insulating effect.Some horse owners seem to become over protective of their horse,adding a blanket.He may get all hot and sweatie and then when the blanket is taken off,he would be damp and then chill.This could start a respiratory infection.If you did want to blanket your horse in the colder weather,try a lighter blanket,light enough,so it dosent press down the horses hair.Never share your horses blanket with another horse as this may spread skin fungal infections,such as girth itch or ring worms.Also if used often,then be perpared to wash it at least twice a week.Try to add disinfectant with the soap and rince them well,so not to leave any traces of soap.