Keeping Horses Safe During 4th of July Celebrations

During the 4th of July holiday, most everyone can be found celebrating the birth of our nation in various ways, such as: picnics, parades, fireworks, and many other festivities that may stress your horses, possibly spooking them.  What can be done to help keep the horses safe during this holiday?

Accustom Horses to Loud Noises

My horse is boarded at a farm in a rural area where some of the area property owners target shoot on their property.  This has accustomed the horses to loud noises and bangs.  Therefore, fireworks are not as big of a problem for them.

Avoid Spooking By Sheltering Horses

What may help the horses during the fireworks and loud noises is to keep them in a shelter or stall away from the noise with plenty of hay in front of them.  Trees will help muffle the sound as well as hide the fireworks display from them.  Chewing hay helps the horses relax.

Make sure the fencing is safe and secure.  If it is an electric fence, check to be sure it is working.  

Use Static Noise to Drown Out the Sound of Fireworks

If the horses are stalled, or sheltered, turn on the radio and the fans to help drown out the loud noises of the fireworks and neighboring parties.  Music has a calming effect.

Sedatives

Sedatives or herbal remedies can also be used to help keep horses calm.  Consult your veterinarian about using sedatives and herbal remedies to quiet your horses.

Know Your Horses

Some horses are not bothered by the loud noises, while others may be very sensitive to the fireworks displays.  Know your horses and what ways would work to keep them calm and safe during the 4th of July celebrations.

Go ahead and enjoy your 4th of July celebration!  Keep it a safe and enjoyable one for you and your equine friends.