H O R S E A N D H E A LT H
TEXT: SHELLEY WOLHUTER IMAGES: COURTESY OF GUT SCHÖNWEIDE
‘SOCIAL BOXES’ OFFER HOPE FOR STALLION SOCIALISATION
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t is no secret that horses are social creatures. If given a choice, a horse will always choose to be with other horses. It is one of their basic needs, just like it is one of ours. It seems fair to assume that in light of current times, humans as a species have realised the fundamental need for socialisation and the potential mental health risks associated with a lack thereof. Therefore, now is as good a time as ever to reflect on the basic needs of our beloved equines.
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As horse owners, we try to do everything we can to fulfil our horses’ needs, and for the most part, it is a relatively simple feat. For stallion owners, however, this is not the case. Of course, food, water, exercise, shelter and safety are easily attainable, but what about socialisation?
RESEARCH Research conducted by the Swiss National Stud farm, in Avenches, in 2016 showed huge promise for stallions HQ|156A
