Boost his well-being
When you know your horse inside out, then changes in his normal behaviour are easy to spot. If his mood’s not quite right, it’s worth looking at the bigger picture. The earlier you fifind out what’s up, the earlier your vet can help. “Look out for the early warning signs and subtle behaviour changes,” says Claire. “If you have an old horse in isolation, then you’re more likely to see signs of depression so any social interaction will boost his spirits.” Horses are social animals, so keeping them in groups helps to keep them happy but one-to-one interactions with you can also keep him chipper. “Just because you’re not trotting off to competitions every week doesn’t mean he should stop moving,” adds Claire Going out for a walk on a lead rein can be a mood booster, as well as enrichment tools, such as mirrors and stable toys, which can improve his mental well-being.