What are signs of colic in horses?

Common signs of colic include rolling, pawing, looking at the flank, lack of appetite, sweating, and lying down repeatedly. Colic is a medical emergency, and a veterinarian should be contacted immediately if these symptoms appear.

Horse Care Resources & Guides | Hooves Haven Rescue

Q: How often should horses be vaccinated?

Horses should receive core vaccinations at least annually. These include tetanus, rabies, West Nile virus, and Eastern/Western equine encephalomyelitis. Risk-based vaccines, such as influenza or equine herpesvirus, may require biannual administration depending on exposure.

Q: Can a rescue horse live barefoot?

Many horses can live barefoot if their hooves are properly trimmed and managed. However, some horses require shoes for protection, corrective balance, or specific workloads. A farrier and veterinarian can help determine the best option for your horse.

Q: How much does it cost to feed a horse?

In the United States, feeding a horse typically costs between $100 and $300 per month, depending on hay quality, availability, and supplements. Costs vary by region and season, with hay often being the largest expense.

Q: Do horses need companions?

Yes. Horses are herd animals and thrive with companionship. Isolation can cause stress, behavioural issues, and health problems. A horse should ideally live with at least one other horse or compatible animal companion.

Owning or adopting a horse is a lifelong responsibility. At Hooves Haven Rescue, we believe that every adopter should be equipped with knowledge, practical tools, and ongoing support to provide the best care possible.

This page serves as your library hub: you’ll find evidence-based guides, step-by-step checklists, and research-backed insights on every aspect of horse care, from feeding and hoof maintenance to dental health, parasite control, vaccinations, and safe transport.

Whether you’re a first-time adopter or a seasoned equestrian, this resource page is designed to give you a strong foundation, while linking you to in-depth guides for further reading.

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Horse Feeding & Nutrition Guide

Nutrition is the foundation of horse health. A horse that eats well thrives in condition, energy, and behaviour. For adopters, especially those new to equine care, understanding feeding principles is key to avoiding health issues like colic, obesity, or malnutrition.

Forage First

In the US, veterinarians recommend that horses consume 1.5–2% of their body weight in forage daily (hay or pasture). For a 1,000 lb (450 kg) horse, that means 15–20 lbs of hay or equivalent grazing. Forage is high in fibre, supporting digestion and mental wellbeing (horses are natural grazers).

Concentrates & Grains

Not every horse needs grain. Concentrates are useful for:

Performance horses with higher caloric demands.
Hard keepers or horses with metabolic needs.
Horses lacking quality forage.

Overfeeding grain is a leading cause of laminitis and colic. It should be offered only when necessary, in multiple small meals.

Supplements

Most horses do well with forage + occasional concentrates, but some need extras:

Salt and minerals (blocks or loose).
Omega-3s for joint and coat health.
Specialised supplements for senior horses (joint support, digestive aids).

Water & Hydration

An average horse drinks 5–10 gallons of water daily. Clean, unfrozen water must be available 24/7.

Global Note

Feeding practices vary worldwide. In tropical areas, legumes like alfalfa/lucerne may replace timothy or orchard grass. In Europe, feeding beet pulp and muesli mixes is common. The principle remains: forage first, grain only as needed.

✅ Provide fresh, clean water.

✅ Measure hay by weight, not “flakes.”

✅ Limit grain — use only when justified.

✅ Provide salt/mineral access.

✅ Check body condition score monthly.

Hoof Care Guide

The old saying goes, “No hoof, no horse.” Proper hoof care is essential for every horse, regardless of discipline or age. Neglect can lead to lameness, infections, and permanent damage — making it one of the most important adoption education topics.

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Routine Farrier Care

Most horses require a farrier visit every 6–8 weeks. Trimming maintains proper balance, prevents cracks, and avoids stress on joints. Horses in heavy work or with conformational challenges may need more frequent visits.

Barefoot vs. Shod

Some horses thrive barefoot, especially those with strong hoof structure living on varied terrain. Others need shoes for protection, corrective balance, or specific disciplines. Decisions should be based on workload, terrain, and individual hoof quality.

Routine Farrier Care

Most horses require a farrier visit every 6–8 weeks. Trimming maintains proper balance, prevents cracks, and avoids stress on joints. Horses in heavy work or with conformational challenges may need more frequent visits.

Barefoot vs. Shod

Some horses thrive barefoot, especially those with strong hoof structure living on varied terrain. Others need shoes for protection, corrective balance, or specific disciplines. Decisions should be based on workload, terrain, and individual hoof quality.

Daily Hoof Checks

Adopters should:

Pick out hooves daily to remove stones, manure, or debris.
Check for signs of thrush (black, smelly discharge), cracks, or heat.
Ensure shoes (if fitted) are tight and level.

Global Note

Climate impacts hoof health:

Wet climates → higher risk of thrush and abscesses.
Arid climates → slower hoof growth, brittle walls.

Preventive Measures

Provide clean, dry turnout.
Use hoof dressings only as recommended (overuse can trap moisture).
Encourage movement — circulation supports healthy hoof growth.

Checklist: Daily Hoof Routine

✅ Pick out all four hooves.

✅ Check for cracks, heat, or odour.

✅ Inspect shoe fit (if shod).

✅ Record changes in condition.

Horse Dental Care Guide

Horses’ teeth grow continuously, making dental care a non-negotiable aspect of long-term welfare. Without routine checks, sharp enamel points and uneven wear can cause weight loss, pain, and dangerous behaviour.

Annual Exams

Every horse should receive at least one dental exam per year. Vets may recommend floating (filing sharp points) to restore proper chewing surfaces. Young horses (2–5 years) require closer monitoring as permanent teeth erupt.

Signs of Dental Issues

Dropping partially chewed hay (quidding).
Difficulty maintaining weight.
Excessive salivation or foul breath.
Head tossing under saddle.

Seniors & Special Needs

Older horses often lose teeth or develop wave mouth. They may require soaked feeds, pelleted forage, or senior mash diets.

Global Note

US and Europe follow similar annual float schedules. In areas with limited equine dentists, owners must be extra vigilant for visible signs of discomfort.

Checklist: Dental Health

✅ Schedule annual vet floats.

✅ Monitor chewing patterns.

✅ Watch body weight and coat condition.

✅ Adjust diet if teeth are lost.

Parasite & Vaccination Guide

Parasites and infectious diseases are silent threats that adopters must manage proactively. The American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) provides clear guidelines for deworming and vaccination — principles that also adapt globally.

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Parasite Control

Gone are the days of blanket deworming every 8 weeks. Today, best practice is Fecal Egg Count (FEC)–based deworming.

Low shedders may need deworming only 1–2×/year.
High shedders require 3–4×/year.

Targeted drugs: ivermectin, fenbendazole, pyrantel (rotation only if necessary).

Vaccinations — Core (US)

Tetanus
West Nile Virus
Rabies
Eastern/Western Equine Encephalomyelitis (EEE/WEE)

Risk-based: equine influenza, equine herpesvirus (EHV), strangles.

Daily Hoof Checks

Adopters should:

Pick out hooves daily to remove stones, manure, or debris.
Check for signs of thrush (black, smelly discharge), cracks, or heat.
Ensure shoes (if fitted) are tight and level.

Global Note

In Europe, rabies vaccination is optional in many regions.
In Africa/Asia, parasite control is more frequent due to climate.
Always consult a local veterinarian.

Checklist: Preventive Care

✅ Conduct FEC 2×/year.

✅ Vaccinate annually in spring.

✅ Record deworming/vaccinations.

✅ Quarantine new arrivals.

Parasite & Vaccination

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Horse Transport & Safety Guide

Transport is stressful for horses and potentially hazardous if not planned correctly. Adopters must learn to prepare trailers, pack kits, and monitor horses during travel.