In addition to providing honest advice, we at AskHELTIE believe it's important to have a wealth of information available for horse owners. This way, you can expand your knowledge and help your horse to the best of your ability. Together, we ensure that horses come a little closer to nature.

Welfare

When it comes to horse health, the focus is often on physical wellbeing. But what about your horse’s mental health? Is your horse truly comfortable and happy? Here are 7 tips to help keep your horse mentally healthy.

7 Tips to Keep Your Horse Mentally Healthy

When it comes to horse health, the focus is often on physical wellbeing. But what about your horse’s mental health? Is your horse truly comfortable and happy? Here are 7 tips to help keep your horse mentally healthy.. Tip 1: Ensure Social Contact Horses are true herd animals, and social contact is a top priority. Being part of a herd provides safety, comfort, friendships, and calm. Eating, grooming, moving, and resting together helps your horse feel secure and mentally relaxed. A stable herd is essential. Tip 2: Provide Enough Roughage Horses eat around 20 hours per day, making feeding a crucial part of their life. Stress from not being able to eat calmly can lead to gastric issues. Ensure your horse has acce...

Others

Welfare

When working with a horse, you can apply different training methods. A basic understanding of how horses learn and how training affects their physical and mental well-being is essential. Without this knowledge, unexpected and unintended effects can occur, which are unpleasant for both horse and rider.

The Impact of Training Techniques on the Mental Health of Horses

When working with a horse, you can apply different training methods. A basic understanding of how horses learn and how training affects their physical and mental well-being is essential. Without this knowledge, unexpected and unintended effects can occur, which are unpleasant for both horse and rider.. In recent years, scientific research has increasingly shown that the way we train horses affects their welfare—not only physically. Training that does not match the horse’s nature or learning style can cause stress and confusion, leading to unwanted behaviors such as spooking or ignoring aids. Bucking and Refusing Bucking, rearing, refusing, and other problem behaviors are usually reactions to a welfare issue. This could involve pain, ill-fitting tack, lack of free movement, insufficient social...

Skin

Resistance

Sea buckthorn

Sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides) is a striking shrub with bright orange berries that naturally occurs in Europe and Asia. In the equine world, sea buckthorn is increasingly used as a natural source of power, not only because of the berries but also the leaves and bark. Each part of the plant contains unique substances that can support the health, vitality and resilience of horses in various ways. In this blog, we explore the special properties of sea buckthorn and the added value of the whole plant.

Sea buckthorn: an enormous source of power for horses

Sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides) is a striking shrub with bright orange berries that naturally occurs in Europe and Asia. In the equine world, sea buckthorn is increasingly used as a natural source of power, not only because of the berries but also the leaves and bark. Each part of the plant contains unique substances that can support the health, vitality and resilience of horses in various ways. In this blog, we explore the special properties of sea buckthorn and the added value of the whole plant.. The power of sea buckthorn berries The orange berries of sea buckthorn are known as one of the richest natural sources of vitamin C. The berries naturally contain a high concentration of antioxidants, including vitamin E, carotenoids and flavonoids. This makes sea buckthorn berries a powerful ally for: Supporting the immune system The combination of antioxidants helps the body neutralise free radicals. As a result, the immune system of horses can respond more strongly to external challenges. Hea...

Others

Welfare

Many people occasionally give their horse time off—during winter, bad weather, or when they themselves go on vacation. But is it actually a good idea? When is it suitable to give your horse a break, when is it not, and what should such a holiday look like?

Is it Good to Give a Horse a Holiday?

Many people occasionally give their horse time off—during winter, bad weather, or when they themselves go on vacation. But is it actually a good idea? When is it suitable to give your horse a break, when is it not, and what should such a holiday look like?. The short answer: It depends on the horse. Every horse is different, and it’s always a matter of individual needs. Here are some things to consider if you’re thinking about giving your horse a break. Mental Balance Horses are creatures of habit and herd animals. Changes in daily routine can cause stress, especially in nervous or inexperienced horses. If your horse is mentally sensitive, it may be best to keep its routine as normal as possible while you’re away, particularly for horses that spend...

Stress

Welfare

November and December are the months when many people feel mentally low. The days are short, and the weather is often gloomy. Winter depression can easily sneak in. But can horses experience this as well? And if so, how can you recognize it, and what can you do about it?

Can Horses Suffer from a (Winter) Depression?

November and December are the months when many people feel mentally low. The days are short, and the weather is often gloomy. Winter depression can easily sneak in. But can horses experience this as well? And if so, how can you recognize it, and what can you do about it?. The term “depression” is sometimes used broadly. Clinically, a depression is a mental disorder, but many people also use the word to describe a temporary dip in mood. A clinical (medically diagnosed) depression is a serious illness and requires treatment by professionals. On the other hand, a winter dip can be unpleasant but is usually easier to resolve or often fades on its own. Many people can relate to a winter dip. Horses can experience it too! Winter Dip in Horses Horses experience a winter...

Mites

Mites are pesky parasites that cause itching and skin irritation in horses. In feathered breeds, a mite infestation can even lead to Chronic Progressive Lymphedema (CPL). That’s why it’s important to control mites effectively. But what kinds of mites are there, and how do they differ?

Different Types of Mites in Horses – and What You Can Do About Them

Mites are pesky parasites that cause itching and skin irritation in horses. In feathered breeds, a mite infestation can even lead to Chronic Progressive Lymphedema (CPL). That’s why it’s important to control mites effectively. But what kinds of mites are there, and how do they differ?. Several types of mites can be found in horses. The main families seen in Europe are Chorioptes, Sarcoptes, and Psoroptes. These mites affect different parts of the body and burrow into the outer skin layer, feeding on skin flakes. Chorioptes – the leg mite Chorioptes mites are commonly known as leg mites. Historically, different subtypes were named after their host species — Chorioptes bovis for cattle, Chorioptes equi for horses, Chorioptes ovis for sheep, and Chorioptes caprae for goats. It wa...

Lymphatic system

Mites

Chronic Progressive Lymphedema (CPL) is a chronic, progressive condition affecting a horse’s legs. It often appears alongside a mite infestation — but why is that?

CPL and Mites: Why Do These Problems Often Occur Together?

Chronic Progressive Lymphedema (CPL) is a chronic, progressive condition affecting a horse’s legs. It often appears alongside a mite infestation — but why is that?. The tendency to develop CPL is largely genetic. Cold-blooded breeds, as well as Friesians, are particularly susceptible, while warmbloods such as KWPN horses are rarely affected. However, whether a horse actually develops CPL depends mainly on management factors — and especially on mites! Breed-specific susceptibility Certain breeds are very prone to CPL, such as the Belgian Draft Horse. Other draft breeds and Tinkers are also commonly affected. In CPL, the lymph vessels in the legs become damag...

Guest blog

Lymphatic system

Autumn is in full swing, which means as a lymph drainage therapist, you might notice more “autumn ailments.” Laminitis from lush autumn grass, filled legs because horses move less… In addition to my work at HELTIE, I, Madeleine, also work as a lymph drainage therapist (Puur Maddy). Every day I see how vital the lymphatic system is for your horse’s health and recovery. It’s often overlooked, yet it plays a key role in removing waste products, supporting the immune system, and aiding recovery after injuries. In this blog, I’ll explain what the lymphatic system does and how Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) can help your horse.

Guest Blog Puur Maddy: Support an Optimal Lymphatic System

Autumn is in full swing, which means as a lymph drainage therapist, you might notice more “autumn ailments.” Laminitis from lush autumn grass, filled legs because horses move less… In addition to my work at HELTIE, I, Madeleine, also work as a lymph drainage therapist (Puur Maddy). Every day I see how vital the lymphatic system is for your horse’s health and recovery. It’s often overlooked, yet it plays a key role in removing waste products, supporting the immune system, and aiding recovery after injuries. In this blog, I’ll explain what the lymphatic system does and how Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) can help your horse.. What is the lymphatic system? The lymphatic system consists of lymph nodes, vessels, glands, and lymph fluid. It’s as extensive as the circulatory system, running throughout the body—superficially under the skin and deeper around the organs and legs. It directly affects multiple organ systems and supports the immune system. Circulatory System vs. Lymphatic System The circulatory system is a “closed system” powered by the heart, pushing fluid into the tissues. The lymphatic system, however, is “o...

Lymphatic system

Stress

The lymphatic system is crucial for a horse’s health. This sophisticated network of lymph vessels and lymph nodes is responsible for removing waste, supporting the immune system, and maintaining fluid balance. Horses have a far more extensive lymphatic system than humans. When horses experience prolonged stress, however, this system can become strained.

The Relationship Between the Lymphatic System and Stress in Horses

The lymphatic system is crucial for a horse’s health. This sophisticated network of lymph vessels and lymph nodes is responsible for removing waste, supporting the immune system, and maintaining fluid balance. Horses have a far more extensive lymphatic system than humans. When horses experience prolonged stress, however, this system can become strained.. Function of the Lymphatic System Lymph vessels transport substances that are no longer needed from throughout the body, including damaged cells, excess fluid, and waste. Lymph fluid carries these substances to the lymph nodes, which filter the fluid and return waste products to the bloodstream. The lymphatic system works closely with the immune system. Lymph flow occurs primarily through movement and can also be stimulated through Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD), a gentle massage technique. Incr...

Feeding

Inorganic or organic minerals. Sugar-free, GMO-free, soy-based or not. Basic pellets, sport feed, muesli, mash, supplements, natural, organic, back to nature, for sensitive stomachs or itchy horses. Just reading the labels on feed bags can feel overwhelming. And if you try to dive deeper into nutrition, you quickly get the impression that you’re doing it wrong – according to forums, social media, and feed brand marketing. That’s why this article goes back to basics: what horses truly need, with a healthy dose of common sense.

Horse feeding: Is it really that complicated these days?

Inorganic or organic minerals. Sugar-free, GMO-free, soy-based or not. Basic pellets, sport feed, muesli, mash, supplements, natural, organic, back to nature, for sensitive stomachs or itchy horses. Just reading the labels on feed bags can feel overwhelming. And if you try to dive deeper into nutrition, you quickly get the impression that you’re doing it wrong – according to forums, social media, and feed brand marketing. That’s why this article goes back to basics: what horses truly need, with a healthy dose of common sense.. Forage: the foundation of the ration Horses should eat forage for most of the day. Forage is a broad concept, but most owners think of hay. Yet forage includes more: herbs, twigs, straw, bark – basically everything a horse would find in nature. This makes forage the true foundation! The quality of your hay is crucial for your horse’s health. Poor quality affects the stomach, gut flora, immune system, digestion, energy, and performance. The nutrition of your horse stands or falls with forage qual...

Weight

Feeding

Wild horses in nature follow a yearly cycle of gaining and losing weight. In spring and summer, they eat more than they need and build up reserves. In winter, high-energy food is less available, and they must rely on more fibrous, low-sugar plants. They burn more energy to stay warm and naturally lose some weight.

Feeding tips for winter: Keep your horse at a healthy weight

Wild horses in nature follow a yearly cycle of gaining and losing weight. In spring and summer, they eat more than they need and build up reserves. In winter, high-energy food is less available, and they must rely on more fibrous, low-sugar plants. They burn more energy to stay warm and naturally lose some weight.. Our domesticated horses are far less influenced by these natural rhythms. While some ponies and draft breeds are still closer to the “wild” situation, warmblood sport horses rarely show the same seasonal weight fluctuation – even if kept outside year-round with unlimited grass and hay. Maintaining weight Owners generally prefer their horses to stay at a steady, healthy weight – not too fat in summer, not too thin in winter. This means adjusting care and feeding with the seasons. Avoiding overwei...

Others

Welfare

As temperatures drop in autumn and winter and rain becomes more frequent, you may feel less motivated to ride and train your horse. Especially if you only have an outdoor arena, keeping your horse fit during the winter months can be challenging. So how do you maintain your horse’s condition?

Exercise in winter: How to keep your horse fit when it’s cold

As temperatures drop in autumn and winter and rain becomes more frequent, you may feel less motivated to ride and train your horse. Especially if you only have an outdoor arena, keeping your horse fit during the winter months can be challenging. So how do you maintain your horse’s condition?. Keeping yourself warm We often tend to humanize our horses, but horses tolerate cold much better than we do. The first tip is therefore: make sure you stay warm and dry while training. As they say in Norway: “There is no bad weather, only bad clothing.” With modern riding gear that is both wind- and waterproof, there’s no reason to skip training because of the weather. As long as it’s not pouring rain or very windy, your horse usually won’t mind moderate weather conditions. Warming up properly H...

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