Bonfire Night Tips For Horses
Many animal owners find Bonfire night stressful due to the negative impact fireworks have on pets. Here are our top tips for managing horses around fireworks.
1. Keep to a routine
If your horse is usually stabled overnight, then continue this and bring them in as normal. Take anything unncessary out of their stables, such as grooming boxes or rugs hanging up so they can't injure themselves on these.
If your horse is normally turned out, leave them in the field, if safe to do so, but ensure you have double-checked there are no holes in the ground or loose and dangerous fencing. If there isn't much grazing available, providing additional forage can keep them busy.
2. Protective boots on for turnout
If you're leaving your horse out in the field but are worried, you could consider putting boots on your horse to protect their legs. Something like these will offer protection:
3. Keep them entertained
Giving your horse something to focus on can provide a distraction from the fireworks. This could be a treat ball, a lick or a smaller-holed haynet to make them work a bit harder for their hay. Here are our favourites:
4. Turn the radio on and leave lights on
Is your horse stabled? Playing some quiet, calm music and leaving lights on can help mask the sound and effect of fireworks and provide a more relaxing atmosphere. Do this a few days before Bonfire night so they're used to it.
5. Give a calming supplement
If keeping your horse in a routine and entertained isn't enough to keep your horse relaxed, you could give a calmer:
We hope everyone has a safe and stress-free Bonfire Night!
For any advice on our products, please give us a call on 01283 575856 or email info@elandlodge.com.