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Deciding to keep a horse is a big step. Caring for horses takes great time and effort and it is not cheap. There are many important factors to take into consideration: Space and Light On investment to take into consideration is where you will keep your horse. Horses are large animals and require a large space to roam with adequate lighting in order to keep your horse happy. Quality stables are a must investment, especially with the British weather. Harsh weather conditions such as wind and rain can damage and overtime corrode the stable, so it is important to chose quality stables that are strong and durable. Allow 400 square foot per horse, if your horse is subject to small and cramped spaces they are prone to sickness, compared to a horse with a comfortable living area. Horses that are kept in small low light conditions are known to become aggressive and uncooperative. Cleanliness Horses require considerable time, work and attention to stay healthy. Grooming is an essential part of caring for horses, but cleanliness doesn’t just stop there, it should be carried through to the stables and equipment used, to ensure that they don’t become a haven for dust, mould and parasites. This will ensure that your horse stays fit and free from disease. A drainage system should be installed to allow for easier cleaning and to flush away urine and faeces easily. Ventilation It is important that your horse gets plenty of clean fresh air; a poorly ventilated stable encourages the spread of dust mites and parasites that can affect the health of your horse. It is important to place windows carefully as to get good ventilation but so the stable doesn’t get too windy. Bedding The hard ground can cause grazes on the horse’s skin, which can become infected, therefore your horse should be provided with soft and comfortable bedding. Food and water An important part of keeping a horse is ensuring that they have a good diet; this will keep them healthy and ensure that they remain in good physical shape. Horses eat what is known as legumes. The best-known legumes are peas, beans, peanuts, lentils, alfalfa and carob. Horses are often fed hay, which is a mixture of grass and legumes. Owners also may feed their horse oats and corn. As a treat you horse will enjoy fresh fruit and vegetables such as carrots and apples. Because horses drink a lot of water, they need a high amount of salt in their diet. Owners often leave salt lick in the horses stable for them to lick throughout the day. Weather conditions Horses were born with their own coat but often extreme changes in weather conditions can make your horse uncomfortable. In harsh weather conditions where it is really cold, place extra bedding in the stables, this will keep your horse warm. In warm weather ensure that your horse is kept in the shade and ensure that they have plenty of water. All of the above factors should be looked into before ordering your stables in order to keep a fit and healthy horse.
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