When deciding on a new horse, a key factor is its health. Although one cannot be 100% certain that a horse is absolutely healthy, there are some basic checks.

One begins with the general external appearance. The coat should be even, shinny and lie flat. The body should be well filled out, with well toned muscle. It should not be overweight or underweight. It should stand evenly on all four legs, with all four hooves pointing straight ahead. It is normal to rest a hind leg (but not a front leg), provided that it is not always the same leg which is rested.

The most important aspect of a horse’s diet is forage feed. It is essential to the proper functioning of its digestive system. A typical horse will consume about 2% of its body weight in feed on a daily basis. The percentage may be slightly lower or higher in some horses depending on its weight, age and level of activity.

Due to the importance of forage feed in a horse’s diet, careful attention must be made to the quality. Forage feed should make up 50-100% of a horse’s diet. Beets are a great example of an antioxidant-providing element of a horse’s diet.

Horses are animals that can be rather high maintenance. They need more than just feeding and a casual brushing. If you ask any horse owner or veterinarian they will tell you that not only are horses a lot of work, but all pets are. The upkeep on an animal the size of a horse can be a bit overwhelming if you do not incorporate it into your daily routine. The following are 7 simple tips for grooming your horse, and any horse lover should find them helpful.

Horses are some of the most beautiful creatures to walk the face of the earth; but as pets, they require lots of maintenance and attention. Simple feeding and brushing is not enough for these animals and if you ask any horse owner or veterinarian, they will tell you that you need a great deal of patience to take care of these pets. The following are 7 tips for grooming your horse and keeping your horse happy and healthy.