How to Keep Horses at Home

Shelter your horse in a barn or other structure that provides protection from the elements. Inside the barn, prepare a stall where the horse can bed comfortably. Fill the stall with a layer of fresh straw or wood shavings. Horses should also have access to a large area in which to roam, such as acres of fenced-in grassland.

Provide a daily food supply for your horse. Feeding should occur two to three times in one day. A balanced diet for a horse usually consists of feeding two flakes of hay per day, which you can peel off from a bale. The hay can either consist of alfalfa or grass. Water should always be available to your horse. Keep a bucket of water full, and change the water each day.

Maintain the cleanliness of your horse's home. Using a pitchfork, clean the horse stall out daily, removing all manure and waste materials. Replace the soiled straw with a fresh supply. Cleaning the stall will ensure your horse stays healthy. It will also refresh the smell of your barn.

Exercise your horse daily. Even if you are not riding the horse, you should let it fun free in an enclosed space. The fenced area should be clear of rocks. Inspect the fence for holes regularly and repair it when there is damage.

Groom your horse on a regular basis by brushing its coat and mane and picking its feet.

Every six to eight weeks, invite a farrier to shoe the horse and trim its hooves. Keep a close eye on the health of your horse, and contact a veterinarian with any concerns.