Anyone that has spent a considerable amount of time around horses understands how quickly a situation can turn from bad to worse. This is especially true with winter approaching, and all of the illnesses that season brings. Although horses make great companions, it can be heartbreaking to see them get sick. Luckily, there are a few simple things that any horse owner can do to help keep them healthy and safe.

1. Make Sure They Have the Right Supplements

Although a veterinarian can provide more direct guidance, providing the right supplements to a horse can help them remain healthier for a longer period of time. Powder supplements like Cetyl M for horses can strengthen joints and keep them active throughout the winter.

2. Help Them Avoid Stress

Horses are, by their nature, a reactive creature. While other creatures, such as cats, are typically more focused on their own well-being, horses have a tendency to react to things around them. This can cause them problems that are similarly found in humans that are also prone to worrying. Too much stress can lead to a variety of nasty illnesses, including diarrhea, ulcers, and even depression. If you want your horse to stay safe, try to reduce their exposure to unnecessary stress. Although there are plenty of ways to improve a horse’s mood, the simplest is to simply keep them company. As long as they have a trusted companion, they’ll feel infinitely more comfortable than if they were alone.

3. Don’t Go Cheap

Although there’s a natural inclination to try and save money on cheap hay, it can have negative long-term effects on a horse’s health. As tempting as it may be to cut corners, you need to remember that the quality of food has a direct correlation on the health of the horse. It might not seem like a big deal to you, but your horse can definitely taste the difference.

4. Exercise Daily

Just as you would with a dog or a cat, it’s important to ensure that your horse is maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle. If they stay cooped up in a stable all the time, then they’ll quickly become depressed and stressed out. As we’ve already discussed, this can lead to even more complications that ultimately affect the health of the horse. Thankfully, you can avoid all of this by simply keeping a daily schedule for taking your horse out on walks. After all, horses are creatures that thrive on moving, so it’s important to maintain this aspect of their lives.

These tips should serve as an effective baseline for you to take care of your horse through the winter months and beyond. As always, it’s important to remember that any animals in your possession have many of the same needs and desires as humans, even if they can’t appropriately communicate it.