Most equestrians dread Bonfire Night as it can be a particularly stressful time for both horses and horse owners alike. With just over 2 weeks to go, now is the time to prepare.
In the lead up to Bonfire Night...
Find out what's happening near you. If there are events close to your horses, contact the organisers and explain the situation. There may be measures they can take such as moving the display to the far end of the site. Don't forget to check in with any neighbours too - even small displays can be problematic for some horses.
Introduce dietary support gradually. If you are concerned that your horse is likely to be stressed and anxious, start adding Lunar Eclipse or Calm Balance + to their feed now. Lunar Eclipse is a meal form balancer specially developed for stressed and temperamental equines. Calm Balance + combines a forage balancer and calming support in a pelleted form.
Think about how to minimise the effect of loud noises and flashing lights. Playing music and leaving lights on can be a great idea, but remember to build up to this gradually before the event so that it becomes 'normal'.
Consider your horse's routine and where they may be safest. If you feel you need to make any adjustments, such as bringing in, moving fields, or turning out overnight, do so gradually and in plenty of time.
Prepare an 'Emergency Contact' sheet. Should the worse happen, having emergency contact details to hand can make all the difference. Include information for you, your vet, your yard owner, insurance provider, and so on.
Speak to your vet if you are very worried that your horse will react badly. They may be able to offer further support.
During Bonfire Night...
Stick with your horse's usual routine as much as possible. Today is probably not the day for moving yards, changing companions etc.
Keep your horse occupied with plenty of food. Make sure there is plenty to eat by providing ad-lib hay, hay replacer (such as HayCare) or grazing. Think about offering boredom busters such as Lucie Brix, MeadowBrix or Sainfoin Brix.
If feeding Lunar Eclipse, offer double the usual amount the day before, during and the day after Bonfire Night.
Ensure your horse has company. Most horses take great comfort from having other horses for company, both in the field and the stable. Stable mirrors can offer a degree of comfort to some.
Display your 'Emergency Contact' sheet. Pin it to the stable door, yard or field gate.
Be available should your horse need you. You may wish to spend time at the yard in person which can work well for some horses, less so for others. If you have cameras set up, use these to keep an eye on them from a distance so that you don't pass your own stressed feelings onto your horse.
If your horse reacts badly on the night and becomes at risk of injuring themselves, or others, do treat it as an emergency and speak to your vet.
For more product information or advice please contact our Feed Line on 01728 604 008 or visit www.simplesystem.co.uk
NB. The British Horse Society now have a reporting system in place for firework related incidents, regardless of severity. Please follow this link should you wish to report an issue.