Here at HorseWorld keeping the minds of our herd healthy is just as important as keeping their bodies healthy. So our teams are always thinking of fun ways to give the horses a little extra something to think about, explore, taste or sniff. Not only is it great for their day-to-day care, these enrichment activities are also really useful for horses who need to be kept in due to veterinary treatments or illness.
Here is how we make our Lick Trays, but if you want even more fun ideas to help keep your equine friend entertained, click the link at the bottom of this page to download a pdf full of more suggestions and ‘how to’ guides.
What you will need...
- an old coffee tray (or something similar – handles are useful for tying up!)
- a spoon
- wet/sticky ingredients
- dry ingredients
- a piece of rope or baling twine (to hang up)
Wet Ingredients:
- Strawberry jam- good in small amounts for a sweet treat and boosts the immune system and hydration levels.
- Apple sauce- good in small amounts for a sweet treat.
- Ginger puree- makes a highly effective digestive aid and support and has also proven to soothe horses.
- Honey- gives a boost of energy and is an antioxidant support.
Dry ingredients:
- Dried parsley- a digestive tonic which can help tone intestines, stimulate gastric function, cleansing of the blood, support the kidneys and urinary system.
- Cinnamon- regulates insulin levels, is a digestive aid and balances blood sugar levels.
- Mixed herbs- good nutrients, aids digestion while promoting equine general health and wellbeing.
- Turmeric- muscle recovery, joints function, digestive aid (especially good for horses with arthritis).
Don’t forget – ALWAYS check that any ingredients or kit you choose to use are safe and appropriate for your horse and their own needs and requirements. If in any doubt always consult your vet before adding anything new to their diet. Never feed someone else’s horses without their permission.
Why not try combinations of these ingredients and see which ones your horse or pony prefers?
Below you can download a sheet of enrichment ideas like this.
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