All over the world, equestrian events are being cancelled due to the current coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.
These include the FEI World Cup Finals in Las Vegas which have never had to be cancelled since the series first began in 1978, as well as the Grand National which has been forced to cease proceedings after Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, announced that mass gatherings would no longer be supported by emergency workers.
Follow Official Guidance…
Here are Feedmark, we are continuously monitoring this this rapidly evolving situation and adhering to guidance from the Government, Public Health England, NHS and World Health Organization.
We recommend that you also observe any official advice to ensure that we are all as protected as possible during these uncertain times.
Here are some tips from the NHS on social distancing and how to avoid catching and spreading coronavirus…
It seems that coronavirus may now be on our doorsteps, but where does that leave us when we still have horses to look after?
As well as practising high levels of hygiene, the latest advice includes maintaining social distancing, self-isolation and avoiding “non-essential travel”. Due to this, many livery yards may be forced to stop owners from visiting their horses and some have already restricted access.
This is why it is important to create a plan in preparation for these circumstances The British Horse Society has some helpful advice for owners to help you build the perfect contingency strategy.
Put a plan in place for your horse…
Discuss your options with a friend at the yard, someone who can help you out and vice versa should either of you have to self-isolate.
Put together a list of volunteers and display somewhere on the yard; this would include names of other horse owners on the yard who are happy to help, and their contact numbers should there be a crisis.
Speak to the livery yard owner to see if they could provide emergency full livery should it be required and consider a potential payment plan.
Hygiene…
Of course, we must follow the standard hygiene recommendations even on the yard; wash your hands regularly with soap and water for at least twenty seconds each time.
Wear gloves wherever possible.
Don’t borrow items from other horse owners; try not to share wheelbarrows, forks, brooms or other tools with handles. If you do, disinfect/wipe them before and after use.
Minimise touching door handles and latches where possible and take your own mug if you have drinks at the yard.
Social distancing for horse owners…
We know it’s great to get together on the yard or in the tearoom and share stories of your horse’s latest antics but during the coronavirus pandemic, it is beneficial for this to stop.
Some yards may put a rota in place to reduce the number of people tending to their horses at any one time.
It is advised to avoid shared spaces but when you do need to talk to someone try to keep 2 metres (3 steps) away from each other.
Minimising risk…
Before the outbreak of coronavirus our National Health Service was already under pressure. It is sensible for us equestrians to reduce any additional strain on this incredibly valuable service by refraining from or being cautious about riding, thus helping to minimise any risk of incidences which may require medical attention.
Of course, exercise will still be required for your horse’s physical and mental health, so lungeing, long-reining, free schooling, walks in hand and plenty of turnout will be ideal where possible. Spending quality time with your horse can be greatly relaxing - giving them a full groom, trimming and tidying them up, and even practising your plaiting skills are perfect ways to enjoy your horse’s company.
Supplies…
With the uncertainty of this situation, no one is sure of how long these safety precautions may last, so do make sure you are stocked up on standard first aid items for your horse as well as their usual forage, feed and supplements.
To provide a helping hand to horse owners throughout this difficult time we are still available seven days a week to answer any questions you may have and to offer any guidance you require. Just call us on freephone 0800 585525 or email [email protected].