Fireworks and horses don’t mix well. Horses are flight animals who can be reactive to loud noises and flashes nearby. Knowing how to help your horse during this season is an important part of being a responsible owner.
Helping your horse stay calm during fireworks season can be a challenge. You may worry about how your horse will react to the fireworks. There are measures you can take to keep yourself and your horse calm and during firework displays. Making sure that you are prepared is the most important thing you can do to help your horse.
Below are 15 things to keep in mind when fireworks season is about to start.
Check Your Fences
The very first thing to consider when coming into firework season is to check that your fencing in solid and your field is secure. Make sure that there are no nails sticking out, sharp edges, or rubbish in the field that your horse could hurt themselves on if they run around scared.
If you have electric fencing, make sure the battery is charged and that the whole length of the fence is powered suitably.
These are things that should be checked regularly regardless of the season, but double checking can’t do any harm.
Check Local Social Media
Keep an eye on local social media so that you are aware of when organised displays are scheduled for. It may be worth also putting a post on your local sites asking if and when private individuals are intending to hold household displays. Other horse and pet owners will also be happy to know in advance.
Insurance
Check that your insurance is valid, and that you have at least 3rd party liability. If the worst were to happen and your horse/s escaped and damaged another persons property, the last thing you need to worry about is a hefty bill.
Turnout
If your horse is used to being out, this is probably the best option, rather than being confined to a stable. Being turned out allows your horse to make it’s own decisions, and gives the freedom to move to a sheltered or quieter part of the field if desired.
Stabling
If your horse is normally stabled overnight then a sudden change in routine may cause upset. This is especially true of naturally anxious horses. If you have the option of allowing access to the stable from the field, it may be a good idea to let your horse make the choice themselves.
Bedding
If your horse is stabled, or has access to a shelter, then you can consider spraying the bedding with a calming scent such as lavender.
Herbs
Introducing herbs to your horse can have a positive effect on their general health and well-being. There are several herbs that can have a calming effect on your horse. Introducing these a few days before scheduled events can help your horse to be less affected by unusual noises and sights.
Forage
Regardless of whether your horse is stabled or turned out, ensure that they have access to plenty of forage. Having access to food will keep your horse occupied and concentrating on something other than the fireworks.
Company
Horses are herd animals and feel safest when surrounded by other horses. If possible, make sure your horse has company, even if it’s only the sight of another horse over the stable door.
Radio
Many horses find having a radio playing is soothing and lowers their stress levels. Try putting one in your stable or shelter and playing a soothing channel.
Camera
Although there is no substitute for being with your horse during firework displays, this isn’t always possible. If you’re unable to stay with yourself to ensure that they stay calm, try putting up a camera to check on them regularly from your phone. If you see a problem you can act immediately, even if it’s simply to ask someone nearer to check on them.
Toys
Put toys in your stable or shelter so that your horse is occupied with something other than racing around as a result of the odd sights and noises.
Earplugs/Sound reducing ear covers
If your horse is reactive to sound, then you could try using earplugs or sound reducing ear covers. If you use an ear bonnet then make doubly sure that there is nothing that the headcollar can get caught on, or think about investing in a fieldsafe headcollar that will snap if pressure is applied.
Exercise
Riding or otherwise exercising your horse before any displays will mean that they are less inclined to run around later. Obviously, exercising during displays is not advisable!
Calming Cookies
Some horses need a little more help. Using calming cookies or speaking to your vet can be an option when you know from experience that your horse is likely to react badly to fireworks.
Conclusion
There is no right or wrong way to treat your horse during firework season. You know your horse. Some horses may prefer to be in a cosy stable with toys and extra feed, whilst others will find being stabled more stressful than being left to their own devises in the field. Whatever you decide, make sure that you leave a list of contact numbers at your yard: your number, vets number, number of a trusted friend. This means that whatever happens, the right people will be notified as soon as possible.
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