Living conditions

Social interaction

As soon as the laminitic horse is able to move again, it is good to give him company. Choose a quiet horse as a companion, preferably a horse the patient is already bonded with. If possible, reintroduce the horse back into the herd. Make sure the herd is not too large. Each horse needs at least half a hectare (one acre).

If the above is not possible, consider providing the company of a sheep or goat. Horses also get along well with donkeys. However, the company of donkeys does pose an increased risk of lung worm infection in horses. By worming with ivermectin or moxidectin, this risk can be controlled. Do not rely on faecal egg count when it comes to lung worms in horses. The eggs of this worm cannot be found in manure.

For a laminitic horse social interaction is of great importance. It not only provides a more natural environment and stimulates the horse to move more, but it also makes the horse feel better. Who feels better, heals faster.

Social interaction between the horse and its caretaker are equally important. Do not leave your laminitic horse to face its trouble on its own. Providing the necessary treatments and measures are of course of vital importance, but the horse will heal faster if it gets your loving attention as well. Let him feel that you are both in the battle against laminitis together. If you do not think this will make a difference, at least observe how your own motivation and perseverance increase by it.

Horses are strongly attached to their existing social relationships, whether it is with another horse or a donkey, goat or sheep. Separation can be stressful. Should your horse need to go to a clinic, consider allowing the whinnying, braying or bleating friend to come along.

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