Holidays With Horses

The holidays are officially upon us. You can find lots of information on holiday gifts and treats for dogs and cats, but what about horses? A local Helotes, TX vet discusses spending the holidays with our equine friends below.

Gifts

Don’t forget to pick up a few things for Silver! A new blanket would be a good gift. Your hooved pal may also appreciate a soft halter, or maybe a comfy new saddle pad. Other gift ideas include hanging horse toys, salt licks, and, of course, new tack. You can also get your horse a nice name sign to hang outside his stall.

Treats

Many people like cooking at this time of year. Why not make something for your horse and his stablemates? Combine 2 cups of plain oats, grated carrots, a chopped apple, and a half cup of molasses. Add a half cup of flour, and a tablespoon of coconut oil. You can also add honey and/or brown sugar. You may need to add water, depending on what kind of oats you used. When it’s all mixed up, roll it into balls and place the balls on cookie sheets. Cook for 30 minutes at 325. Needless to say, these are safe for people, too!

Photos

This is a wonderful time of year to get some great seasonal photos of your horse. One cute option is to hang a wreath or ribbon on your paddock, or on your horse’s stall, and take a photo of him there. (Of course, if your horse tries to eat his prop, you’ll want to move it after you’ve gotten the photo.) You can also put a small Santa hat over your horse’s ear. Not all horses will keep it on long enough for you to get the photo, but it’s worth a shot!

Chores

As you probably know, there’s no such thing as a day off from caring for horses. Your horse will still need food and fresh water, and will need his stall cleaned out. Of course, if you board your horse, you may not have to do these tasks yourself. However, many stables are very quiet and peaceful on holiday mornings. Being surrounded by whickers, whiskers, and velvety noses is a great way to start a holiday!

Please contact us, your local Helotes, TX vet clinic, for all of your horse’s veterinary care needs. We are here to help!