How to maintain a healthy horse from the Dogwood horse care experts

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The equestrian experts here at Dogwood London are dedicated to horse care. Looking after a horse takes much time and dedication and some find this a struggle, explaining why there are so many cases of equine neglect reported in the UK every year.

Horses are large creatures that require daily care. They must be exercised regularly so that they remain fit, checked over for any signs of ill-health, fed at regular intervals, receive regular visits from the farrier and may also need veterinary attention.

Temperature and heart rate

When inspecting a horse for sale you should check its temperature, pulse rate and respiration rate. It might also be an idea to check your own horse's temperature and heart rate when attending to him at the stables if you suspect he may be unwell:

Temperature - the normal body temperature for a horse is between 37 and 38�C or between 99 and 100.5�F.

Pulse - the normal pulse rates for a resting horse is between 36 and 42 beats per minute. Young stock and ponies may be a bit faster.

Respiration - the normal respiration rate for a horse in a state of rest is between 8 and 15 breaths per minute. This obviously increases when the horse exercises.

Essential horse health care

The following horse care advice should be adhered to in order to maintain the general health your horse:

Feed regularly and at similar times everyday, such as before you leave for work and when you return, as horses crave routine.

Always keep a fresh, clean supply of drinking water in a place where your horse can easily access it.

Keep up to date with vaccinations and have your vet inform you of any epidemics that might affect your horse.

Follow a suitable worming program.

Have your horse's teeth checked regularly. If your horse starts to leave his food this may indicate an oral problem.

Have your horse's feet regularly attended to by a farrier.

Daily horse care checks

Make sure your horse is bright, alert with pricked up ears and is taking an interest in his surroundings.

Make sure that his coat is smooth, shiny and lying flat on his body.

Make sure that his eyes and nose are free from discharge.

Make sure that his limbs are not overheated and are free from swellings.

Make sure he stands squarely on all four feet.

Make sure that he is eating well and chewing properly.

Make sure that your horse's dung resembles damp balls and that it has broken up when hitting the ground. The dung will vary in colour depending on your horse's diet.

Fine horse tack, saddles and equestrian wear

As well as health care advice, Dogwood boasts a fine selection of horse tack including bits, bridles, reins and martingales. We also offer beautiful leather saddles from the master craftsmen at Bates and Stubben and synthetic alternatives from the expert saddlers at Wintec.

Whether you enjoy leisure riding or show jumping, we have an outstanding range of riding jackets, dressage shirts, hats, gloves, body warmers and jodhpurs for riders of all ages.

We also have a beautiful collection of equestrian footwear including jodhpur boots from Dublin and long leather riding boots from Sergio Grasso.

If you have any enquiries about any of our fine horse tack, saddles or equestrian wear then please call 0845 30 10 365.

For more information about horse care please see:

No sweat - Horse care advice from the equestrian experts

Horse care and your horse's feet

Fine horse care products from Dogwood

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