Horses, as hugely sensitive animals, need and deserve our devotion to their care and well-being. It’s not enough to only provide the bare necessities like food, shelter and whatever healthcare your horse insurance policy will cover. In order to feel truly contented, you will need to give a little extra TLC, just as with humans.

Horses, as herd animals, enjoy being in the company of other equines, so keep them in a shared paddock if possible. Your horse should see you, as his owner, as part of the herd, and preferably as herd leader. They will often show their affection by chewing or licking; here they are submitting to your leadership. To ensure the development of trust and an emotional bond between you, it is vital to spend quality time with your horse. When this is achieved, it will have a positive effect on all areas in the horse’s handling and riding.

Horses are clean animals, so ensure that their stable/stalls are clean and warm, with deep bedding. A deep bed will help to alleviate any stress on joints and legs, as well as giving them a place to lie down in safety and comfort.

Feeding your horse is obviously an important factor in equine care. Make feeds small but frequent as they will also be grazing during the day. A healthy and balanced diet for your horse should incorporate a variety of appropriate foods. It’s essential to supply your horse with plenty of fibre, so ensure there is lots of fresh hay or grass available. Grain is also superb, but not too much as it can upset the stomach. Make sure your horse has access to fresh water. Water is important in allowing fermentation so the horse’s food doesn’t become a hard solid mass in it’s gut. Remember that the frequency of meals is also important, as horses like routine. It is better to feed your horse at the same time each day.

Grooming your horse daily will show the horse that they are loved - they will enjoy extra attention from you which grooming brings. Your horse will love you to give him a nice rub, a good brushing and a scratch here and there. This is real quality time which you should both enjoy every day. Grooming will also help to keep their coat in good condition and free from pests. You will also need to pick your horse’s hooves daily. They must feel comfortable on their hooves or they will become grumpy, not to mention that failing to take care of your horse’s feet will put him at risk of injury or infection which could cost you a claim on your equine insurance.

Exercise is vital for a horse’s happiness. Daily exercise is essential for your horse. Exercise should be varied and should include some jumping and cross-country work, for example. What is also important is allowing your horse some time to play. They need to feel the freedom of being turned out in the paddock. Your horse can then play, either alone or with other equines, and have some quiet time too. You need to ensure that your horse is given sufficient time to relax too - they can demonstrate erratic behaviour if simply put to task all the time.

Part of the physical and psychological well-being of your horse can be taken care of by following these few simple but important tips. For more information and to become part of a horse-lovers’ community on the world-wide web, please visit AFI Horse Insurancewhere you can read and contribute to our brand-new equine blog.