Education

A farrier is a specialist who trims and shapes a horse’s hooves and fits shoes when needed. Hooves grow continuously — just like our fingernails — so they need professional attention every 6–8 weeks. If hooves are left too long, they can crack, become uneven, or cause the horse pain when walking. Think of it like getting your nails done, except it’s essential for how the horse moves and carries its weight! Without regular farrier visits, horses can develop serious foot problems and lameness.

Unlike ours, horses’ teeth never stop growing. Over time they can develop sharp edges and uneven surfaces that make eating painful. An equine dentist visits once or twice a year to file (or “rasp”) the teeth smooth. Signs that a horse might need dental work include dropping food while eating, tilting their head to one side, or being fussy with the bit. Regular dental care keeps them comfortable and eating properly — just like our trips to the dentist!

Horses need regular vet visits just like we go to the doctor. An equine vet carries out routine health checks, gives vaccinations (such as flu and tetanus), and is there for emergencies. Vaccinations protect against serious diseases and are usually given once or twice a year. Knowing when something isn’t right — like a change in behaviour, loss of appetite, or unusual swelling — means the vet can be called early before small problems become big ones.

Horses graze on grass all day, and that means they can easily pick up internal parasites (worms) from the pasture. Left untreated, worms can cause weight loss, colic, and serious damage to the gut. Regular worming treatments — usually several times a year on a planned schedule — keep parasite levels under control. Many yards also do regular worm egg counts (a simple test) to check whether treatment is needed, helping to use wormers responsibly and avoid resistance.

Laminitis is a painful condition where the sensitive tissue inside the hoof becomes inflamed. It’s one of the most common and serious health issues in horses and ponies. A lot of people think horses can just be “chucked in a field” and left to it, but rich, lush grass can actually be a major trigger — especially in spring and summer. Overweight horses and ponies are particularly at risk. Managing their diet, limiting time on rich pasture, and keeping a healthy weight are all crucial for prevention. Laminitis can be extremely painful and, in severe cases, life-threatening, so it’s something every horse owner takes very seriously.

It might sound surprising, but horses can get sunburned! Horses with pink skin — especially around the nose, muzzle, and ears — are particularly vulnerable. Just like fair-skinned people, they need sunscreen applied to exposed areas on sunny days. UV-protective fly masks can also help shield their faces. Repeated sunburn can lead to sore, cracked skin and in extreme cases, skin conditions that need veterinary treatment. So next time the sun’s out, spare a thought for the pink-nosed ponies!

In warmer months, flies and insects can make life really uncomfortable for horses. They buzz around eyes, ears, and any wounds, causing irritation and stress. Fly masks are mesh coverings that protect the horse’s face and eyes while still letting them see clearly. Fly spray can be applied to the coat to repel insects, and fly rugs provide full-body protection. Some horses are more sensitive than others — a condition called “sweet itch” is caused by an allergic reaction to midge bites and needs careful management. Keeping horses comfortable during fly season is an important part of daily care.