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Happihorse, Worldwide service educating on natural horsemanship, South Lanarkshire (2026)

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Worldwide Service Educating On Natural Horsemanship

28/04/2026

🐴⬇️ What to use instead of POLO MINTS
Growing your own rewards is the best way to move away from "junk food" treats.

These plants are naturally sweet or highly aromatic to a horse’s palate, but they provide medicinal benefits instead of insulin spikes.

Naturally Sweet and Tasty Reward Herbs

Stevia(Stevia rebaudiana)The Benefit: Known as "sweet leaf," it is hundreds of times sweeter than sugar but has zero calories and no effect on blood glucose.How to Use: Grow it in a pot or a protected garden patch. Pluck a few fresh leaves to hand-feed as a "sugar-free" sugar cube.

Peppermint (Mentha piperita)The Benefit: This provides the classic "Polo" taste naturally. It is an antispasmodic that helps soothe the digestive tract and clear the airways.How to Use: Horses love the fresh leaves. It is very invasive, so grow it in a dedicated "trough" or large pot near the gate so it doesn't take over your paddock.

Aniseed (Pimpinella anisum)The Benefit: Horses are famously attracted to the scent of aniseed. It is often used in natural horsemanship to encourage a horse to "join up" or accept a bitless bridle.

How to Use: Use the seeds or the feathery fronds of the plant as a fragrant reward.

Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare)The Benefit: Naturally sweet and licorice-scented. It is excellent for horses prone to gas colic or bloating.How to Use: Offer the "bulbs" (sliced) or the long green stalks as a crunchy, hydrating snack.

Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis)The Benefit: A sweet, citrusy scent that acts as a natural nervine to calm anxious horses.

How to Use:

Non-Hand-fed - fresh handfuls during grooming to help the horse relax and associate you and an activity with "calm."

Growing a "Reward Garden" (Safe Design)

To prevent your horse from overgrazing these special treats, plant them in a protected herb bed along the paddock boundary or in large planters near the "social hub."

Harvest and Toss: Simply cut a handful and drop it to the floor. NON Hand Fed.

"The "Wilt" Method: For some herbs like Nettles (which are high in iron and protein), cut them and let them wilt for 24 hours. Once the "sting" is gone, they become a sweet, highly-prized treat.

Why Herbs Over Polos?

Trace Minerals: Herbs pull minerals from the soil that are missing from commercial treats.

Dental Health: These plants don't stick to the teeth or cause the "acid mouth" that leads to decay.

Mental Stimulation: The varied textures and scents of fresh herbs provide sensory enrichment that a processed mint cannot.

Also carrots, decored apples, sunflower seeds, watermelon 🍉 etc are natural treats.

28/04/2026

Polo Mints as treats for horse 👎🏻⚠️🚫🐴
While Polo mints are a classic "traditional" treat, they are essentially compressed sugar and artificial flavouring.

In a natural horsemanship and holistic health model, they are considered harmful "junk food" that can lead to several physical and behavioural issues.

The Dangers of High-Sugar TreatsMost commercial mints and "human" candies are far too high in refined sugar for a horse's sensitive metabolism.

Insulin Spikes and Laminitis: Rapid sugar intake causes a spike in insulin. For horses with Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS) or those prone to laminitis, even a few sugary mints can trigger a painful inflammatory response in the hooves.

Gut Microbiome Disruption: The horse's hindgut relies on a delicate balance of bacteria to ferment fibre.

Refined sugar can cause an overgrowth of "bad" bacteria, leading to gas colic or loose droppings.

Dental Decay: Just like in humans, sugar sits against the teeth and gums. In horses, this can contribute to periodontal disease and the erosion of tooth enamel over time.

Choking Hazard: Hard, round candies like Polos can occasionally be swallowed whole if a horse is excited, leading to "choke" (an obstruction in the oesophagus).

Behavioural "Poverty" and Safety Risks-Treating a horse like a "baby doll" by constant hand-feeding leads to a loss of respect for personal space.

The "Nipping" Reflex: Hand-feeding small, sugary treats often turns a horse into a "mugger." They begin to search your pockets and fingers with their teeth.

This is not "cute" but a dangerous lack of boundaries that can lead to accidental bites.

Loss of Focused Communication: If a horse is only working for a sugar hit, they are not "gentled" or truly listening to your energy; they are simply performing a trick for a drug-like reward.

This creates a brittle relationship that fails when the treats run out.

Frustration and Anxiety: Horses can become "treat-obsessed," leading to pawing, biting, or aggressive behaviour toward other horses (resource guarding) when they smell sugar on you.

Better, Safer Alternatives if you want to reward your horse, choose "whole-food" items that provide nutrition rather than just a sugar high:

Rosehips: High in Vitamin C and naturally crunchy.

Celery Chunks: Low sugar, high water content, and provides a satisfying "crunch."

Sunflower Seeds: Provides healthy fats for the coat.

Herbal "Wads": A handful of dried peppermint leaves or nettles provides the "minty" taste without the refined sugar and binders.

Critical Cautions for Treat

Avoid "Stone" Fruits: Never give plums, cherries, or peaches without removing the pits, as these can cause fatal blockages or contain trace cyanide.

No "Nightshades":
NEVER feed potatoes, tomatoes, or peppers, which are toxic to the equine nervous and digestive systems.

Check for Prohibited Substances: If you compete, be aware that some "human" treats (like chocolate or caffeinated items) contain substances that will cause you to fail a drug test.

28/04/2026

🐴👎🏻🚫 Maintaining a horse-safe environment requires vigilance both at home and away, as many common plants and everyday substances can be lethal. ⬇️⬇️⬇️⚠️. Because horses cannot vomit or burp, they are unable to expel ingested toxins, making prevention critical.

High-Risk Toxic Trees and PlantsMany "landscape" plants are extremely hazardous.

Always check boundary fences for overhanging branches or garden clippings tossed over by neighbours.

Yew (Taxus): Lethal in tiny amounts. It contains taxine, a cardiotoxin that can cause instant cardiac arrest; horses are often found dead with the plant still in their mouths.

Sycamore and Red Maple:Sycamore "Helicopter" Seeds: Contain Hypoglycin-A, which causes often-fatal Atypical Myopathy (muscle wasting).

Wilted Red Maple Leaves: Highly toxic; they damage red blood cells and hinder oxygen transport.

Oak and Acorns: Contain tannins that cause severe colic, bloody diarrhoea, and kidney damage. Risk peaks in autumn when acorns drop.

Ragwort: Causes cumulative, irreversible liver failure. It is most dangerous when dried in hay because it loses its bitter taste but remains toxic.

Foxglove (Digitalis): Contains glycosides that disrupt heart rhythm. Just 100g can be fatal, especially if processed into hay.

Hemlock and Water Hemlock: Highly toxic neurotoxins found near waterways and roadsides that cause rapid respiratory failure.

Hazardous Household and Farm Waste Items often overlooked during property maintenance can pose severe risks.

Lawn Clippings: Extremely dangerous. They ferment rapidly, releasing gases that can cause the horse's stomach to rupture. They may also hide toxic garden plants like Privet or Ivy.

Rodenticides and Pesticides: Baits are often grain-based and flavoured to be attractive to pests, which also makes them appealing to inquisitive horses.

Many are anticoagulants that cause internal bleeding.Lead and Heavy Metals: Found in old barn paint, treated lumber, or soil near old machinery.

Horses may ingest lead by licking or chewing on tainted surfaces.

Stagnant Water: Can harbour blue-green algae blooms, which contain bacteria toxic to the liver and nervous system.

Caffeine and Chocolate: Contain stimulants (NOPS - Naturally Occurring Prohibited Substances) that can cause heart irregularities and are strictly banned in competition.

Safety Checklist for Away from HomeWhen trail riding or boarding, be aware of these "hidden" dangers:

Overhanging Hedges: Watch for Privet, Laurel, and Rhododendron along trail edges; even a quick bite can cause distress.

Contaminated Feed: Ionophores (antibiotics for cattle) can be lethal to horses if cross-contamination occurs in milling facilities.

Wild Berry Bushes: As a general rule, anything with berries should be considered potentially poisonous and avoided.

Public Interaction: Use signage to warn members of the public against feeding your horses, as they may unknowingly offer toxic garden waste.

28/04/2026

🐴✅Making a soothing herbal salve is an excellent way to treat minor skin irritations, bug bites, and abrasions naturally. ⬇️⬇️⬇️ This recipe uses Calendula and Plantain as the primary healing agents, both of which are time-honoured for their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.

Soothing Horse safe "First-Aid" Herbal Salve Recipe - Ingredients

1 Cup Herb-Infused Oil:
Use equal parts dried Calendula (soothes burns and bites), Plantain (draws out toxins/stings), and Comfrey (promotes tissue repair).1 oz. Beeswax:

This acts as the hardening agent and creates a protective barrier on the horse's skin.Optional Essential Oils: 10–20 drops of Lavender (calming/antiseptic) and 5–10 drops of Tea Tree (antibacterial/antifungal).

Instructions

Melt: Place the infused oil and beeswax in a double boiler over low heat until the wax has completely melted.

Combine: Remove from heat and stir in your essential oils.

Pour: Carefully pour the liquid into clean, dry glass jars or tins.Cool: Allow it to sit undisturbed at room temperature until it has solidified.

How to Make the Infused Oil (The "Folk Method")

If you don't have pre-made oil, you can make it yourself:Pack a Jar: Fill a clean glass jar about halfway with dried herbs.

Cover with Oil: Pour a carrier oil (like olive, sweet almond, or coconut oil) over the herbs until they are covered by at least an inch.Infuse: Let the jar sit in a dark place for 2–6 weeks, shaking it daily.

Strain: Use a cheesecloth or fine-mesh strainer to remove the plant material, squeezing well to get every drop.

Application Tips

Clean First: Gently clean the affected area with water or diluted Apple Cider Vinegar before applying.

Dab or Massage: If the skin is very sore, gently dab the salve on; otherwise, massage it in 3–4 times a day.

Storage: Store your salve in a cool, dark place. It should last approximately 6–12 months.For a step-by-step visual on preparing herbal oils and salves at home, watch this guide:

HERBS FOR HORSES • EQUINE THERAPIES WITH HERBS on You ouTube • HorseTV

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Horse-safe recipe above consists of ingredients widely praised in equine herbalism.

It avoids the harsh chemicals, petroleum bases, and artificial fragrances found in many commercial "baby doll" grooming products.
Safety Breakdown of the Ingredients

Calendula and Plantain: These are exceptionally safe "topical" herbs.

Horses often seek these out in the wild to self-medicate for skin heat and inflammation.

Comfrey: While there is debate about high-volume internal use of Comfrey, it is considered the "gold standard" for external healing in books like A Modern Horse Herbal.

It contains allantoin, which physically speeds up cell regrowth.

Beeswax: A natural, breathable wax. Unlike petroleum jelly (Vaseline), beeswax allows the skin to "breathe" and sweat, which is vital for a horse's thermoregulation.

Carrier Oils (Olive, Almond, Coconut): These are all edible-grade oils.

If your horse happens to lick the salve, these oils will not harm them.

Lavender and Tea Tree Essential Oils:

At the low concentrations listed (10–20 drops per cup), these are safe. Tea Tree is a powerful natural antifungal, perfect for "rain scald" or minor fungal skin irritations.

Important Safety Cautions for Application

The "Clean Wound" Rule:

Comfrey is so effective at healing skin that it can actually close a wound too fast.

Never apply this salve to a deep puncture wound or a wound that is currently infected/pus-filled.

You must ensure the wound is clean and "draining" first; otherwise, the salve might trap bacteria inside by sealing the skin over the top.

Essential Oil Sensitivity: Just like humans, a very small percentage of horses may be sensitive to Tea Tree oil.

Always do a patch test on a small area of the chest first to ensure there is no redness or hair loss before applying it to a larger area.

Photosensitivity: If you use a large amount of essential oils, avoid applying the salve to pink/white muzzles right before the horse goes out into intense, direct midday sun, as some oils can increase the risk of sunburn.

Why This is Better than "Modern" Alternatives

Traditional "purple sprays" or antibiotic creams often contain alcohol or steroids that can sting, dry out the skin, or thin the tissue over time.

This herbal salve supports the horse’s natural defence systems—the skin's ability to knit back together—without disrupting the healthy bacteria on the coat.

28/04/2026

🐴🪰🦟✅. For a truly effective, natural alternative to harsh chemicals, you need a multi-layered approach. ⬇️⬇️⬇️

Different insects are repelled by different scents:

Midges hate citrus and eucalyptus, while Horse Flies are most deterred by strong, pungent oils like Cedarwood or Neem.

Below is a potent recipe designed for a wide range of biting insects.

Natural "Triple-Action" Fly & Tick SprayBase Ingredients:

Apple Cider Vinegar (2 Cups): The acetic acid acts as a natural repellent and changes the pH of the horse's skin to make it less attractive to flies.

Witch Hazel (1 Cup): Acts as an emulsifier to help the oils mix with the liquid and is soothing to the skin.

Neem Oil (2 Tablespoons): One of the most powerful natural insecticides. It disrupts the life cycle of ticks and is particularly effective against midges.

The Essential Oil Blend (20–30 drops of each):

Eucalyptus Citriodora (Lemon Eucalyptus): The best natural deterrent for mosquitos and midges.

Cedarwood Oil: Highly effective against ticks and fleas.

Peppermint Oil: The cooling sensation helps with itchiness, and the scent deters horse flies.

Lavender Oil: Soothes existing bites and provides a scent that flies generally avoid.

Lemongrass or Citronella: Classic broad-spectrum repellents for general flying insects.

Instructions:Mix the Apple Cider Vinegar and Witch Hazel in a large spray bottle.Add the Neem oil and the essential oil blend.

Crucial Step: Shake vigorously before every single use, as the oils will naturally separate from the vinegar.

Apply liberally to the coat, avoiding the eyes and muzzle.

For the face, spray onto a soft cloth and wipe around the ears and forehead.

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Specific Targeted ingredients for-Ticks:

Ticks are highly sensitive to Rose Geranium Oil.

If you are in a high-tick area, add 20 drops of this specifically to the legs and under-belly area.

For Midges (Sweet Itch):

Midges are most active at dawn and dusk. In addition to the spray, applying a thin layer of Coconut Oil to the midline and mane/tail base creates a physical barrier they cannot bite through.

For Horse Flies: These hunters are visual. While no spray is 100% effective against them,

Bog Myrtle (Sweet Gale) oil is a traditional Scottish remedy known specifically for its ability to deter the most aggressive horse flies.

Important Caution’s - photosensitivity:

Citrus oils (like Lemon or Orange) can cause the skin to burn in direct, hot sunlight.

Stick to Lemon Eucalyptus or Lemongrass which are safer.

Patch Test: Always test a small area of the horse’s chest or neck first to ensure they don't have a skin reaction to the essential oils.

Frequency: Natural sprays evaporate faster than chemical ones. On hot or humid days, you may need to re-apply every 2–4 hours.

The "Internal" Defence to support the spray, many "Horse Herbal" practitioners suggest adding Garlic and Apple Cider Vinegar to the daily feed.

This causes the horse to emit a scent through their pores that is nearly undetectable to humans but highly offensive to biting insects

28/04/2026

🐴✅✅Books such as A Modern Horse Herbal by Hilary Page Self and other similar guides, like Equine Herbs & Healing, provide a detailed and wide of plants and natural ingredients ⬇️⬇️⬇️ for equine wellness.

These resources typically categorise herbs by their medicinal actions—such as tonics, sedatives, and antimicrobial agents—while emphasizing the need for veterinary consultation.

Key Herbal Ingredients & Benefits-

Alfalfa: A high-fibre, nutritious plant rich in calcium and vitamins; used as a general health tonic and to support urinary health.

Aloe Vera: Used internally to aid digestion and externally to soothe skin irritations and minor burns.

Arnica: Helps relieve pain and swelling from muscle strains and bruises.

Note: Internally, it is used only in homeopathic preparations.

Chamomile: A popular calming herb used to reduce anxiety, tension, and stress-related digestive issues.

Comfrey (Knitbone): Internally promotes the healing of bone and tissue; externally used as a poultice for wounds and abscesses.

Dandelion: A nutrient-dense herb that supports liver detoxification and acts as a mild diuretic for fluid balance.

Echinacea: Known as an immune booster; it stimulates white blood cells and helps the body resist infections.

Garlic: A natural antibiotic and antimicrobial used for respiratory health and as a fly repellent.

Mint (Peppermint): Improves digestion, stimulates appetite, and helps alleviate gas and bloating.

Nettle: Rich in iron and minerals; used to support blood circulation and promote a glossy coat.

Turmeric: Containing curcumin, it is a powerful anti-inflammatory used for joint health and arthritis.

Valerian: Acts as a natural sedative for managing significant stress, anxiety, or travel tension.White Willow: Often called "natural aspirin," it reduces inflammation and fevers while relieving chronic pain.

Beneficial Non-Herbal Ingredients-

Apple Cider Vinegar: Often cited in herbal guides for its role in balancing gut pH and acting as an internal deterrent for insects.

Diatomaceous Earth: Provides trace minerals and is commonly used for internal parasite control and improving coat/hoof condition.

Kelp/Bladderwrack: A rich source of iodine and minerals that supports thyroid function and coat health.

Important Cautions & Considerations-

Pregnancy: Many herbs like Aloe Vera, Aniseed, Wormwood, and White Willow should be avoided or used with extreme caution in pregnant mares.

Competition Standards: Some natural herbs, such as Valerian Root and White Willow, may be considered prohibited substances by governing bodies like the FEI or USEF due to their sedative or pain-relieving effects.

Toxicity Risks:

Garlic can cause Heinz body anaemia if fed in “excessive” amounts.

Comfrey given in large quantities over long periods may lead to liver damage.

Proper Preparation: Most herbs require specific preparation methods (teas, tinctures, or poultices) to be effective, as highlighted in guides like Plants, Potions and Oils for Horses.

Self-Selection:

Some equine herbalists recommend "applied zoopharmacognosy," allowing horses to choose their own herbs based on their current health needs.

28/04/2026

🐴🐴🐴🚚More vital horse travel tips
Considerate driving for horses is the ultimate test of the "partnership" model.

Because a horse is an approx 1100lb athlete standing on four thin legs in a moving box, every turn and stop you make is a physical challenge for them.

The "Glass of Water" Mindset

-The gold standard for considerate driving is to imagine there is a full glass of water on your dashboard.

Your goal is to drive so smoothly that not a single drop spills.

Anticipatory Braking: Never "stab" at the brakes.

Start slowing down hundreds of yards before a junction or red light.

This gives the horse time to feel the shift in momentum and brace their hindquarters.

The "Slow-Motion" Corner: Centrifugal force is the hardest thing for a horse to manage.

Take corners at half the speed you think is necessary.

If you feel your own body swaying in the seat, the horse is likely scrambling to keep their footing.

Acceleration with Intent: Once the light turns green, do not pull away sharply.

Roll forward slowly until the trailer is fully straight before reaching cruising speed.

Monitoring the "Climate Control"Horses generate a massive amount of heat through the isometric exercise of staying balanced.

The Mirror Check: Constantly monitor your horse in the camera or mirror. If you see their nostrils flaring or sweat on their neck, pull over immediately. You likely need to open more vents or slow down to reduce their exertion.

Road Surface Awareness: Potholes and cattle grids are minor bumps for a car but can be jarring "explosions" for a horse standing on a hard trailer floor.

Aim to "straddle" or avoid road imperfections whenever safe to do so.

Psychological ConsiderationVisual Breaks:

If you are stopped in heavy traffic, avoid stopping directly next to loud, hissing air brakes of large trucks.

If possible, leave a "buffer" space between you and the vehicle in front so the horse doesn't feel boxed in.

The Silent Cabin: Keep your own energy calm. Loud music or aggressive driving (even if the horse can't see you) transmits tension through the vehicle.

A calm driver creates a calm passenger.

Stopping for the Horse’s Needs

The "Head-Down"

Stop: Every 2–3 hours, find a quiet spot to park. Untie the horse (if safe) or ensure the rope is long enough for them to drop their head to the floor.

This allows the "mucociliary escalator" to work, clearing the dust and spores they’ve inhaled during the journey.

The Hydration Offering: During these stops, offer water from home.

Many horses refuse "strange" water, so adding a splash of Apple Cider Vinegar or Apple Juice to their water both at home and on the road can mask the taste and encourage drinking.

Post-Journey Recovery
Considerate driver knows the job isn't done at the destination.

Unloading Patience: Never rush the horse off the ramp. Open the doors and let them stand for 5 minutes to adjust to the new light and smells. This prevents the "rushing back" habit that causes many loading injuries.

28/04/2026

🐴🚚For a horse, travelling is often the most stressful part of domestic life because it contradicts their nature as a roaming, wide-view prey animal. ⬇️⬇️

Kindest travelling moves away from "trapping" the horse in a dark box and focuses on physical comfort, airflow, and psychological security.

The Vehicle: Design for Comfort

Rear-Facing or Herringbone Travel: Studies consistently show that horses balance better and are more relaxed when travelling backward (facing the rear).

This allows them to use their hindquarters to brace during braking, reducing strain on the neck and forelegs.

Open and Airy Interiors: Low-slung partitions that allow the horse to see their companions and "wide-view" windows reduce the claustrophobia of a "prison" on wheels.

Low Ramps and Rubber Flooring: A steep ramp is a common cause of loading anxiety. A shallow, wide ramp with high-grip rubber mats makes the transition into the vehicle feel stable and safe.

Consider Remove the Center Partition (if travelling alone): If you are hauling a single horse, removing the center partition allows them to spread their legs and find their own "centre of gravity," significantly reducing travel fatigue.

The Preparation: No Forced LoadingThe "Open Door" Policy:

Never wait until the day of the show to load. Park the trailer in the paddock and feed the horse their "natural mash" inside it daily with the doors open.

This turns the vehicle into a "mobile dining room" rather than a terrifying trap.

Liberty Loading: Use natural horsemanship techniques to ask the horse to choose to enter.

If you have to use a "butt rope" or force, the horse is already in a state of high cortisol, which makes the journey physically taxing.

Health and Hydration

-Soaked Hay and Succulents: Travel is dehydrating. Study how providing a hay net of soaked hay or water-heavy snacks like watermelon rinds and cucumber ensures they are taking in fluid while they chew (avoid choke hazards). , which also buffers stomach acid against ulcers.

The "Naked" Traveller: Unless it is freezing or the horse is prone to injury, travel with as little "rigging" as possible.

Heavy travel boots and rugs cause overheating and restricted movement. Leather headcollars are the kindest choice as they will break in an emergency, unlike nylon.

Frequent Breaks: On long journeys, stop every 2 hours for 15–20 minutes.

Do not necessarily unload (which can be stressful at a roadside), but offer a bucket of water and allow the horse to lower its head to the floor.

Airflow and Environment

The "Head Down" Rule: Horses clear their airways by lowering their heads.

If tied too short in a trailer, they cannot "drain" their lungs of dust and spores, which can lead to Shipping Fever (pleuropneumonia).

Consider: Tie the horse long enough that they can lower their nose - safely but ideally to their knees.

Maximum Ventilation: Even in winter, airflow is critical. A horse generates immense body heat; a stuffy, humid trailer is a breeding ground for respiratory distress.

Post-Travel Care
The "Cool Down" Walk: Upon arrival, do not just tie the horse to the side of the trailer.

Lead them for 10–15 minutes on a long rein to allow their circulation to normalise and their muscles to stretch after the isometric work of balancing.

28/04/2026

🐴❤️ Additional horse safe edibles:
Horses are highly selective foragers that thrive on a diverse diet.

Beyond the standard treats, a "wide" diet can incorporate varied vegetation, garden produce, and high-performance seeds to support everything from digestion to coat health.

Edible Forage and Browsing VarietyIn a natural environment, horses seek out various textures and plant species.

Tree Branches and Leaves:
Safe options for "hedgerow bouquets" include Hazel, Ash, Birch, and Willow.

Wildflowers:

Cornflowers help with detoxification, while Marigolds (Calendula) are excellent for skin and digestive health.

Thistles: Although prickly, many horses enjoy the heads of Creeping Thistles, which offer antibacterial and antioxidant benefits.

Rosemary and Thyme: These garden herbs are not only tasty but also offer antimicrobial and respiratory support.

Beneficial Garden and Kitchen Additions
Many safe kitchen scraps are often overlooked but add valuable nutrients and variety.

Root Vegetables: Beyond carrots, you can feed Swedes (Rutabagas), Parsnips, and Turnips.

Leafy Greens:

Lettuce and Swiss Chard are safe in moderation.

While Spinach is high in nutrients, it should be fed sparingly due to oxalates.

Hydrating Snacks: Cucumber is very hydrating and low in sugar.Exotic Fruits:

Small amounts of Mango (pit removed), Papaya (with seeds), and Pineapple (peeled) are safe and provide unique enzymes.

Performance Seeds and Functional Ingredients
-For a "show-ring" gloss and internal health, specific seeds and oils are vital.

Spirulina: This blue-green algae is a powerful "superfood" that supports detoxification and provides high-quality protein.

H**p Seeds: Often neglected, h**p provides a perfect balance of Omega fatty acids and is excellent for building "topline" muscle.

Fenugreek: Highly palatable, it acts as a digestive tonic and appetite stimulant.

Chia Seeds: These create a mucilaginous gel that can help clear sand from the gut while providing coat-shining fats.

Sadly Neglected Ingredients These items are essential for horses but often missing from standard commercial diets.

Seaw**d/Kelp: Provides over 60 trace minerals and natural iodine, which is critical for coat pigment and thyroid function.

Milk Thistle: Essential for horses on medication or recovering from illness, as it provides powerful liver support.

Meadowsweet: Contains natural salicylate (a precursor to aspirin) and is excellent for soothing gastric ulcers and joint pain.

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Critical Diet Cautions

-Toxic Lookalikes:

When picking wild plants like Cow Parsley, ensure you do not accidentally pick Hemlock, Giant Hogw**d, or Fool’s Parsley, which are DEADLY !!

Stone Fruits: Always remove pits from:

peaches,
cherries, or
apricots,

- as they contain trace amounts of cyanide and pose a choking risk

Do your own research and check with your vet if you are unsure.

28/04/2026

🐴❤️ What additional horse safe foods and treats are there ⬇️⬇️⬇️ - that are rarely used and introduce a wide variety diet apart from the daily prison food of overly dry hay and extremely boring processed horse feeds:

A biologically appropriate, "wide" diet designed to move away from processed commercial pellets/meal

- toward a whole-food, nutrient-dense approach.

First the more unusual - less known but horse safe ingredients:

Beyond the standard fruits and common pantry staples, there are several "functional" whole foods and wild forages that horses naturally seek out for their medicinal and nutritional properties.

These can be offered in small amounts and the horse/s will make the choice. Ie not restricting but as small additive / treats:

Additional Beneficial Whole Foods-

Celery-Benefits: High in water content and provides a satisfying crunch. It is an excellent source of natural electrolytes (sodium and potassium) and Vitamin K.

Caution: Chop into small pieces; it is very low in sugar, making it safe for laminitics.

Pumpkin and Squash-Benefits: Rich in Vitamin A (beta-carotene) and Vitamin E.

The seeds are a natural source of zinc and are traditionally used to support a healthy gut environment against parasites.

Caution: Feed only the flesh and seeds; avoid the "woody" stems.

Pears benefits : Similar to apples but often softer and easier for older horses to chew. They provide dietary fibre and copper. Caution: Remove the "seed core

Fresh Ginger Root-Benefits: A powerful anti-inflammatory and digestive aid. It can help soothe the stomach of horses prone to ulcers or travel stress. Caution: Very potent; grate a small thumb-sized piece into a mash once or twice a week.

Beneficial Wild Browsing and Hedgerow Plants

Hawthorn (Leaves, Flowers, and Berries)Benefits: Known as a "heart tonic," it supports healthy circulation. Horses often browse the thorny branches in winter for the mineral-rich bark.

Hazel-Benefits: The leaves are high in tannins which can help "tone" the digestive tract and provide a different protein profile than grass.

Dandelion (Roots and Leaves)Benefits: Often sprayed as a w**d, but actually a vital liver and kidney tonic. The roots contain inulin, a natural prebiotic that feeds good gut bacteria.

Sticky Willows (Cleavers)Benefits: Mentioned previously for the lymphatic system, but also extremely high in silica, which strengthens the hoof wall from the inside out.

Neglected Minerals and Seeds

-H**p Seeds/H**p Hearts Benefits: One of the only plant sources containing a complete profile of all essential amino acids. It is incredible for building "topline" muscle without using high-starch grains.

Fenugreek Seeds-Benefits: Often used to stimulate appetite in "fussy" eaters. It has a maple-syrup scent and supports healthy glucose metabolism.

Turmeric Root (with Black Pepper) Benefits: A heavy-hitting anti-inflammatory. It must be fed with a fat (like coconut oil) and cracked black pepper to be absorbed by the horse’s system.
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Focuses on dietary variety, gut health, and specific ingredients for that elusive "deep gloss" coat.

1. Fruits, Berries, and Succulents-While these are excellent sources of vitamins and hydration, they should be viewed as "nature’s treats."

Carrots: High in Beta-carotene (Vitamin A). They support vision and immune health.Caution: Slice lengthways to prevent choking; high in natural sugar (limit for laminitics).

Apples: Provide Vitamin C and potassium.Caution: Remove cores/seeds if feeding in large quantities (seeds contain trace cyanide) and slice to prevent "choke”.

Berries (Blueberries, Raspberries, Strawberries): Powerhouses of antioxidants and flavonoids. They help reduce systemic inflammation.

Bananas: Excellent source of potassium and B6. Many horses love the peel, which is also safe and fibrous.

Watermelon: An incredible hydration tool in summer; the rind is safe, crunchy, and fibrous.

Rosehips: Often neglected, these are the highest natural source of Vitamin C and support hoof growth and joint health

2. The "Glossy Coat" & Healthy Fat BloomA "glass-like" shine comes from internal oils and high-quality minerals, not just grooming.

Coconut Oil: Contains Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCTs). It has anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties and provides "cool" energy without the sugar spike.

Benefit: Highly digestible and gives a distinctive "sheen" to the coat.

Black Sunflower Seeds (with hulls): Rich in Omega-6 fatty acids and Vitamin E.Benefit: The hulls provide extra fibre, while the oil inside promotes a deep, dark glow in the coat.

Linseed (Flaxseed): This is the king of coat health. It is high in Omega-3 (anti-inflammatory).Note: Must be fed "micronised" (cooked) or as cold-pressed oil to be safe and digestible.

Whole Chia Seeds: A neglected superfood. They form a mucilaginous gel in the gut, helping to clear out sand and providing a perfect balance of Omega-3 and 6.3.

Sadly Neglected "Essential" IngredientsModern horse keeping often misses these vital elements found in the "wild" horse's diet.

Salt (Pure Rock or Himalayan): Essential for the electrical "firing" of muscles and thirst stimulation. Most horses are salt-deficient because they don't like the "bitter" taste of commercial mineral blocks.

Seaw**d (Kelp): Contains over 60 trace minerals and vitamins, including natural iodine for thyroid health. It darkens coat pigment significantly.

Brewers Yeast: A natural prebiotic and a massive source of B-vitamins (Biotin, B12). It stabilises hindgut bacteria and helps "nervous" horses stay calm.

Apple Cider Vinegar (with "The Mother"): Supports a healthy pH balance in the gut and can act as a natural internal deterrent for flies.

Magnesium Oxide: Most pastures are magnesium-deficient. It is critical for hoof health, nerve function, and preventing "fatty crests" in easy keepers.

Copper and Zinc: These must be balanced. A deficiency in copper is the #1 reason for "sun-bleached" manes and dull, gingery coats on black/bay horses.

4. Natural Forage/Browse Variety in a natural setting, horses are "concentrate selectors," meaning they pick at different plants all day.

Tree Browsing (Willow & Birch):

Willow contains salicin (natural aspirin) for pain relief;

Birch acts as a kidney tonic and diuretic.

Cleavers (Goosegrass): A neglected w**d that is the best "lymphatic cleanser" in nature—perfect for horses with "filled legs”

Nettles (Wilted): Extremely high in iron and protein. Once wilted, the sting disappears, and horses will devour them to boost blood health.

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Summary of Cautions-Sugar Sensitivity: If your horse has EMS, Cushing’s (PPID), or is laminitic, avoid fruits and high-sugar veggies (carrots/apples). Stick to seeds, oils, and herbs. Gradual Introduction:

**Never introduce a new oil or seed in large amounts. Start with a teaspoon and build up over 14 days to avoid upsetting the delicate hindgut microbiome.

The "Whole Food" Rule: Whenever possible, feed ingredients in their raw, unprocessed state NOT than "synthetic" versions.

Happihorse

28/04/2026

28/04/2026

28/04/2026

28/04/2026

28/04/2026

28/04/2026

28/04/2026

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28/04/2026

28/04/2026

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