askHELTIE HELTIEhorse® How do you prepare your horse for fireworks?

How do you prepare your horse for fireworks?

Fireworks, around you you have probably heard it on a regular basis. The time has already arrived and will only get worse in the coming period. For many horses, it is not a problem and causes little/no stress. However, for some horses (and their owners) this is a very stressful period. In this blog, we therefore want to give you some tips for making New Year's Eve as stress-free as possible.

Stress

14 December '24 • 2 min reading time

Tip 1: Provide Plenty of Forage

If there’s one thing that calms horses, it’s chewing! Ensure your horse always has access to forage. Chewing has a soothing effect and also directly calms the stomach. Saliva produced during chewing neutralizes stomach acid, reducing the risk of ulcers.

Tip 2: Use Calming Herbs or Supplements

If you know your horse is prone to stress, consider starting calming herbs or a supplement in advance. Herbs and supplements won’t completely eliminate stress or sedate your horse, but they can help manage tension. Horses may still feel stress in the moment, but they’ll likely handle it better and release tension more easily. This helps prevent stress from escalating into panic. Consider a combination of chamomile and passionflower. A liquid supplement containing these herbs can even be used relatively last-minute!

Tip 3: Decide in Advance Whether to Keep Your Horse Indoors or Outdoors

As owners, we often prefer to keep our horses in the stable during New Year’s Eve, as it feels safer for us. A safe box, lights on, and perhaps loud music playing – this setup works well for many horses. They feel comfortable in their familiar stable and can find peace there. However, some horses are better off staying outside. These horses may get stressed by the noise and lights indoors because they can’t see what’s happening and feel trapped. Such horses are often calmer outdoors, where they can see what’s going on and feel they have the option to flee if necessary. If you decide to keep your horse outside, make sure the area is safe, and check the fencing thoroughly.

Tip 4: Offer a Treat During the New Year’s Celebration

Is your horse crazy about carrots or a specific mash? Prepare their favorite treat for New Year’s Eve. Just before the fireworks start, give your horse a generous portion. This will distract them, help them relax, and keep them less aware of what’s happening around them.

Tip 5: Stay Close to Your Horse

Are you and your horse close buddies? Stay with your horse during New Year’s Eve. Move the party to the stable and keep an eye on your equine friend. Your calm presence will reassure your horse and help them feel safe. This can make the fireworks experience much less stressful for them.

Tip 6: Don’t Overwork Your Horse!

Some people choose to heavily exercise their horse before New Year’s Eve to tire them out in the stable. However, this can backfire, as the exertion itself causes stress. Instead, let your horse relax, give them a day off, and allow them to spend time with their herd. The day after New Year’s Eve, avoid resuming intense work right away. The mental strain of the fireworks can be taxing for your horse. Give them time to process the experience, and opt for a relaxing walk or grooming session instead.

Happy New Year! 🎉

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