Getting To Know Horses Better

Horses seem to accompany man forever.  When our ancestors discovered that they could serve much more than just food, they began to use them for transport and agricultural work.

These beautiful animals are often synonymous with freedom, when we see them running through landscapes that seem almost infinite, we remember the stories of exploration, wars and bloody conquests in which they participated.

But also others that speak of their almost symbiotic relationship with the rider and the therapeutic benefit they bring us through hippotherapy.

Regrettably, we cannot afford enough space in our homes to keep these noble creatures as pets.

Data by which we know the horse

We’ll tell you now, some of the physical and personality characteristics of the wonderful world of horses:

– They are ungulate herbivorous mammals (which have hooves).

– Can be divided into two classes. Cold-blooded ones, which are suitable for work in rural areas and as therapy animals, and warm-blooded ones, which are ideal for riding, sports and exhibitions.

With the crossing, the warm-blooded horses emerged, which have the docility and tranquility of the former and the lightness and agility of the latter.

– They usually live around 30 years old, although some have already reached 50 years old.

– Gestation lasts 11 months, and the mare, in general, gives birth to a single foal.

– The most common diseases that can affect horses are equine flu, rabies, Nile fever, equine encephalomyelitis, mumps and tetanus.

They are gregarious animals and need to communicate with other members of the troop.

When domesticated, they treat humans as members of their troop and use the same body language to communicate with their owners.

This language is extensive and specific and it is important to master it to maintain a better relationship with these beings.

• Their sensitivity allows them to perceive the mood of the people they relate to.

Advice for those who have chosen a horse as a pet

If you are thinking of having a horse as a companion or pet, you should consider some important issues:

• First and main, you must have enough space for it to move and paste. You should not leave your horse locked up in a stall all day.
• Remove trash and plants that are dangerous to him – such as bay leaves, belladonna and castor beans – from the outdoor areas he tends to occupy. These places must also be properly secured. Never use sharp wire for fences.

• Also, you should prepare a clean, conditioned place for your horse to rest. The court has to be wide, sandy and warm during the winter. Always remember to place clean, dry straw on the ground and change it at least once a day.
• It is essential to brush it daily to keep your coat and skin in good condition. Furthermore, this activity is very pleasurable for the horses. Also, by brushing him, you will be strengthening the bonds of affection with your horse.
• Be aware that the horse cannot ingest large amounts of food at once, as its stomach is delicate and not very large.
• You will need to provide them with three basic types of food: pasture – which you will get outdoors, in the place you are destined to –, hay and processed foods , to provide vitamins and minerals.
• The horse drinks a lot of water. Make sure he always has a good amount of water at his disposal.
• Get it vaccinated and deworm it periodically.
• Ask your veterinarian to check your general health every six months.

If your house is so small that it can only fit you and perhaps your cat, or if you live in the middle of the city but would love to own a horse, remember that there is art so you can meet him with you.

Man’s relationship with these beings was shaped in many different stories. Those who are a few years older will certainly remember the Tornado, the black steed on which Zorro rode.

Or Cochise, Joe Cartwright’s painted horse in the mythical Bonanza series. Also Silver, the lone knight’s inseparable adventure partner.

But back to the present, the story of the Mustang Hidalgo and the Pure Blood Seabiscuit were also brought to the cinema.