Looking after your horse
Keeping your horse healthy!
From choosing the right horse to keeping your stable yard safe and secure, our horse factsheets are full of help and advice for horse owners and riders.
Basic equine first aidRead our basic first aid tips so you’re prepared in an emergency. 
Care of the companion horseThis factsheet will help you understand how to care for a companion horse. 
Care of the older horseFind out how to care for an older horse. 
Choosing a riding horseJust like people, no two horses are alike and this factsheet will help you find your perfect match. 
Code to the countryside There’s nothing better than a trip to the countryside – you just can’t beat that lovely fresh air for dusting off the cobwebs. Whether you’re a dog walker, horse rider or picnicking family don’t forget that it’s there for everyone to enjoy and it’s also a working environment. Read our tips for how to have a great day out while staying safe and respecting the countryside… 
Colic prevention and managementThis factsheet will help you identify the symptoms and causes of colic. 
Common ailmentsLearn about the common health problems affecting horses and what to look out for. 
Correctly fitting tack Learn about your horse’s tack and how to make sure it fits correctly. Cutting cost without compromising on welfareEquine charities receive a large number of calls every month from horse owners seeking alternative homes for their animals 
Essential hoof careLearn all about hoof care and what you can do to keep your horse’s feet in good shape. 
EuthanasiaMaking the decision to say goodbye to a much-loved horse can be extremely tough. This factsheet will talk you through the process of euthanasia and what your options are. 
Exercise and ongoing trainingUnderstand the different ways in which you can exercise and train your horse. 
Feeding and wateringLearn the golden rules of feeding and watering your horse. 
Finding the right pet for youThis factsheet will help you choose the right pet for you and your family. 
Keep dogs and horses safe around each otherSome dogs have never seen a horse before, and if they are scared or nervous they may react by chasing the horse. Our factsheet offers advice on avoiding this troublesome situation. 
LaminitisUnderstand laminitis, what causes it and how you can treat it. 
Loading and transporting horsesRead our advice on transporting horses, including teaching them to load happily and safely. 
Obesity prevention and managementObesity in horses is a growing problem and this factsheet will help you manage your horse’s weight. 
Responsible rehomingEquine charities receive a large number of calls every month from horse owners seeking alternative homes for their animals. 
Routine healthcare for horsesLearn more about how you can help keep your horse healthy. 
Safety around horsesHorses are big animals and they can sometimes be unpredictable. This factsheet has advice on how to stay safe around them. 
Stabling and liveryFrom grass-kept to full livery – find out what’s the best option for you and your horse. 
The field-kept horse Read our tips for keeping your field-kept horse happy and healthy. 
Trailer safetyIf you betray a horse’s trust in you by not ensuring your trailer is safe, the consequences can be devastating. A horse will suffer terrible injuries if it goes through the floor or ramp, even if the trailer is parked, and faces risk of death if mechanical failure causes an accident.
Vaccinations and disease control Find out what routine vaccinations your horse needs and what you can do to prevent diseases spreading.