Companion Pony: Care
Many of our equines are rehomed as companions for a number of reasons, for example their conformation may not suit ridden work or they may have particular behavioural issues. Nevertheless, it is still important that the companion horse/pony is given the correct care to suit their needs...
- Companions still require regular handling to ensure they are manageable for the vet or farrier.
- Whilst a companion may not need to be groomed every day, being groomed at least once a week will give you a chance to check for any health concerns and give you time to bond with the equine.
- Companions still require routine visits from the farrier and dentist.
- All horses should be vaccinated against tetanus and influenza, it is also an ideal time for a health check by the vet.
- Unless the companion struggles to keep weight on, the horse should manage well with a fibre diet of grass, haylage or fibre based feed and if the equine is a good doer they may need restricted grazing to manage weight gain.
- How much exercise a non-ridden companion does is dependent on their education, fitness and soundness. Some ways to exercise your companion pony include taking them for walks in hand, lunging, long lining, and natural horsemanship activities.
If you have any further enquiries, please email: equine@oaktreeanimals.org.uk
