How to help your horse acclimate to a new location and group of horses?
Arriving in a new stable is an important step for a horse. Change of environment, new companions, changed habits… Good acclimatization is essential to avoid stress and ensure the well-being of your companion. Here are some tips to facilitate this smooth transition.
1. A gradual transition
When visiting the new stable, take into account the horse's new lifestyle. If it is moving from a full box boarding facility to an active stable boarding facility with group living with other horses, you can get it used to it by starting by putting it in the paddock more often and, if possible, in contact with another horse to teach it to socialise again.
(Read here an article on socialization and the need for contact of horses with their peers)
2. Maintain a stable routine
Horses are animals of routine. To minimize their stress, keep their habits as much as possible: same meal times, same ration, same type of bedding and, if possible, the same equipment (bucket, waterer, mat, etc.).
You can ask your stable for a bag of pellets in advance to make a dietary transition to his new flaked food.
3. Gradual introduction to new companions
Integration into a new herd must be done cautiously. Favor a gradual introduction through a fence before putting it directly in the field with the other horses. Observe the interactions carefully to avoid any risk of conflict. When the interactions are calmer, you can integrate the horse into the herd.
4. Provide a reassuring environment
A horse will feel safer if he finds familiar elements in his new space. You are his lair, his point of support, do not hesitate in the early days to be often present for him, check that he is physically well, bring him treats that he likes, keep your same habits while he adapts to his new living space and his new friends.
5. Allow time to adapt
Every horse reacts differently to change. Some acclimate quickly, while others will need several weeks to feel comfortable. Be patient and pay attention to his behavior: appetite, energy, stress signals (sweating, excessive neighing, agitation, etc.).
6. Build confidence with floor work
Groundwork is a great way to strengthen the bond between you and your horse, while giving him reassuring reference points in his new environment. Walk him around the barn in hand, do simple exercises and encourage him with rewards.
7. Monitor health and well-being
A change of environment can lead to digestive disorders (colic, diarrhea) or a drop in immunity. Make sure he is eating properly, hydrating well and showing signs of comfort. A consultation with a veterinarian or equine osteopath can be beneficial to ensure that everything is going well.
8. Adapt the shoeing according to the herd lifestyle
If your horse is going to live in a group, it is recommended to remove at least the hindquarters to ensure the safety of its peers. This transition should be anticipated several weeks before its arrival to allow it to gradually adapt to bare feet. This will give it time to strengthen its horn and find comfort without shoes. Remember to consult your farrier well before the move to organize this transition smoothly.
(Come and read the article here on: Making the right choice for your horse's feet, barefoot or with shoes?)
9. Anticipate acclimatization in winter
If your horse is moving during the winter and will be living outdoors, it is important to anticipate its adaptation to the weather conditions. Give it time to develop sufficient winter hair and provide blankets adapted to different temperatures and weather conditions (rain, wind, intense cold). Equipment such as comfortable and well-fitting outdoor horse blankets, of different weights for rain and cold, well chosen will allow it to gradually get used to its new environment while remaining comfortable and healthy.
(Come read the article here on: Should I put a blanket on my horse in winter or let it grow winter hair?)
Conclusion
Acclimatizing a horse to a new place requires time, patience and special attention. By following these steps and providing a stable and reassuring environment, you will facilitate this transition and allow your horse to quickly regain its balance and well-being.
(Come and read the article here which shows the benefits of life in a herd for horses, the need for socialization with other horses and stimulation in their environment for their physical and mental well-being.)
