What is Normal for Your Horse?

Hello folks. I would like to tell you about some things you should really know about your horse. It could save his life or you a very expensive vet bill.

It is important to know what your horse’s normal behavior is. Is he a chow hound? Does he typically lick his feed bucket clean? Does he wipe out every trace of hay he’s given? How much water does he typically consume in a day? Is he eager for his turn-out? Where is his favorite "hang out" when he is turned out? How often does he lie down? Do you notice his expression when he first sees you and what it is like? Knowing what is normal for your horse’s behavior can be one of the earliest clues that he might be ill or not.

Besides knowing his normal behavior it is also just as important to know what is normal for your horse’s vital signs. Vital signs are a good clue for your horse’s overall health. They can also indicate how his body is functioning. It is important for you to know how to take your horse’s temperature, respiration, and measure capillary refill time, check the pulse, check hydration and know how to listen to his heart, lungs and intestines. You need to know what the normal values are for your horse’s vital signs. Keeping a written record of the normal values of his vital signs will be helpful for you and your vet in making assessments if your horse should become ill.

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