Managing your horse’s stress during the fireworks season.
Caring for horses during fireworks is crucial, as the loud noises and sudden flashes can be very stressful for them. Horses are prey animals by nature and can react with fear or panic when exposed to unfamiliar or frightening stimuli, like fireworks. This stress response can lead to pacing, sweating, or even attempts to escape, which could cause injury.
To manage this stress, it’s important to create a safe and secure environment. Horses can be kept either in the stable or the paddock, depending on where they feel most relaxed. If stabled, ensure the stable is secure and has enough bedding in case they move around restlessly. If they are in the paddock, make sure fences are strong and there is nothing they could injure themselves on if they become startled.
Reducing their exposure to fireworks sounds can be effective. Playing calming music or white noise can help mask the loud bangs. Additionally, keeping a consistent, calm presence around your horse can help ease their anxiety. Horses often mirror their handler’s emotions, so maintaining a calm demeanour will offer reassurance.
In some cases, using calming supplements or herbal remedies, may also reduce their anxiety. Checking in on your horse frequently during the evening or staying with them for reassurance can be helpful in managing their stress levels, and for your own peace of mind.
The ArcEquine can be a useful tool for helping your horse during this period. As well as relieving the symptoms of many injuries and conditions and promoting general wellbeing, microcurrent therapy has also been seen to reduce stress levels in horses. You can read some reviews HERE on our Trustpilot page in which ArcEquine users talk about how the ARC benefitted their horses in stressful situations such as travelling or just have an overall calming effect on their horse’s behaviour.
We would recommend using your ARC on Programme 1, alongside other preventive measures, to help keep your horse safe and calm during the fireworks season.
