Coronavirus – Keeping Ourselves and Our Horses Safe

This is a challenging time. No-one knows how this pandemic will evolve or when it will end. In the meantime the best we can do is to follow government advice, look after ourselves, and plan for what would happen to our horses should we have to self-isolate or fall ill.

First and foremost, we need to look after ourselves. If we become infected, we cannot help either our horses or others.

Looking after Ourselves

Government guidelines have been consistent with the most important being wash your hands frequently with soap and water or hand sanitiser. Also:

• Cough or sneeze into a tissue then immediately dispose of it

• Keep your distance from other people

• Self isolate if you feel ill

• Avoid going to theatres, cinemas, restaurants or pubs

• Avoid large gatherings

• Work from home if you can

• Avoid using public transport if possible

• Avoid unnecessary journeys

• Check the NHS website for information and advice

• Ring 111 if you are unsure or worried

Looking after our horses:

• Wash your hands frequently

• Keep your distance from fellow horse owners

• Arrange for a friend to take care of your horse in case you become ill

• Make sure your friend and others at your yard have access to your feed, equipment etc

• Make up a care and exercise plan for your horse and tell people where it is

• Make a note of any veterinary requirements and the name/contact number of your vet

• Keep a note of your horse's normal temperature, pulse and resting respiration rate

• Check with your regular professionals (farrier, physio dentist etc.) to make sure they are still travelling

• If your horse is at livery, start a what’s app group so you can all keep in touch and help each other

• Look out for over 70’s or people in vulnerable categories and offer to help

We are sure most of this information is already in place but if we all do our bit hopefully the virus can be slowed down. If you have any useful tips that can be added to the above, do add a comment below.

As one factory owner said on TV a couple of days ago, no-one needs nannying but, for ourselves as responsible horse owners and for the welfare of our horses, we do need to employ common sense.

Please keep your horses, yourselves and your fellow riders positive, healthy and happy.

More advice can be found at:

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/coronavirus-action-plan

https://www.bhs.org.uk/advice-and-information/coronavirus-covid-19