Needs - Horsekeeping on a Small Acreage - page 39

Feeding hay to Zinger on pasture is best when the land is covered in snow. This elim-
inates the risk of her ingesting sand with the feed.
• Be sure it is impossible for a horse to get to the feed in your storage areas. Horses do
not know when to stop eating and can literally eat themselves sick. An excess amount of
grain can cause colic or laminitis, both of which can be life threatening.
• Horses have sensitive digestive systems. Do not feed a horse immediately after hard
work, and do not work the animal until at least 1 hour after a full feed.
• Feed the highest-quality hay you can find. Take the time to shop around and become
familiar with the characteristics that constitute excellent hay. (See chapters 13 ,
Land, and 18 , Routines, for more information on hay.)
• Be sure feeders are clean and safe. Do not let feed accumulate in the bottom of feed-
ers. Moldy or spoiled feed can create problems for your horse and large veterinary