With the 4th of July just days away, horse owners who live in areas close to where fire works may be set off, need to make preparations to make sure both horses and people will be safe. As prey animals, horses naturally react to unusual noise or movement. The louder the noise or the faster the movement, the more the horse will react.
Fireworks display
When the noise of fireworks is sudden and loud, the consequences for a horse can be catastrophic.
© 2012 by Jon Sullivan
Loud, crackling or banging fireworks are a particular threat to the emotional welfare of a horse. When the noise is very sudden and extremely loud, the consequences can be catastrophic. The sight and sounds of fireworks can send a horse into flight mode, making it impossible to calm it down easily. A panicking horse can easily endanger its own life and the lives of people as well as other animals in the vicinity.
For many horse owners, simply securing their horses in the barn or stall, giving them some hay to munch on, and turning on a radio to block out at least some of the noise of fireworks is enough for the horse to have a calm evening.
Here are some tips to prepare for evenings around the 4th of July when fireworks can be expected:
- Try to keep your horse to his normal routine and with his usual companions
- Give your horse plenty of hay to keep it occupied
- Make sure the area where the horse is kept in is secure by checking stalls, doors, fencing or other enclosures
- Don't leave stalled horses alone. If at all possible the horse should have physical and/or visual access to its neighbors
- Do not tie your horse. It could rear back in a panic and injure titself
- Don't take the risk of riding your horse when fireworks may be set off
- If your horse is of the extremely nervous type, you can ask your vet in advance for a tranquilizer such as Acepromazine. One dose typically lasts for two or more hours.
- If possible, stay near your horse if you are unsure how it will react to fireworks noise. Your presence should have a calming effect. Even if horses seem relaxed, check them throughout the evening.
- Sometimes cotton wool in the horses' ears or ear covers may make a difference
- Although it's too late for this year, programs that desensitize a horse to loud noise, sudden movement and other fearful experiences are available.
Knowing your horse is safe and relaxed with help you enjoy your holiday celebrations!
Happy Fourth of July!