The horse breeding sector knows how to capture the attention of young entrepreneurs. Despite the difficulties and time required to care for foals, the drive towards breeding is steadily growing. Horses are incredible animals, able to give tranquility and instil security. Likewise, they provide their breeders with a not inconsiderable financial return, which increases according to the amount of care devoted to each member of the group.
Let’s take a look together at the essential elements for a functional horse breeding that knows how to get the most out of individual horses. Let’s find out how to approach this world without making mistakes, ready to start the next adventure.
Finding the right breeding space
The first thing to do, before even thinking about starting a horse farm, is find the right space to house the animals. Horses are certainly not small, nor are they used to moving in confined spaces. Thoroughbreds and foals of all breeds need to be able to move freely, away from each other in the right way. Usually – in a classical stud farm – stallions should be separated from mares, avoiding conflicts and regulating breed reproduction.
The stall is the safe environment in which individuals find shelter after returning from their ‘exploration sessions’. It is essential that it is comfortable, equipped with all the amenities necessary to ensure optimal growth of the horse. It is ideal to find a fertile area in which to plant hay, which will form an integral part of the equine diet, so as to avoid the need to buy hay from outside. The grazing area should be enclosed by a special fence, which will allow you to better control and manage your horses.
Identifying the breed
The second key point is to identify the ideal breed of horse – suitable for one’s purposes. Each breed has its own restrictions and needs, which young horses must be able to fulfil in the right way. Take the following elements into consideration so that you can choose calmly, safe in the knowledge that you have all the most important information at your disposal:
- Find out the most popular breeds in your region
- Inquire about the care required for individual specimens
- Study and evaluate the prices, also looking for information on buying and selling dynamics
- Make sure the horse has a good pedigree, which should be included in the deed of sale
- If your herd consists exclusively of females, consider buying a stallion for breeding
The feeding of the thoroughbred
The feeding of the horse is absolutely fundamental, a very important element for the animal’s growth and development. It is important to find out about a horse’s nutritional needs before purchasing it, so as to ensure proper nutrition. Horses feed mainly on forage, to which good quantities of hay, grass, oats and grain are added.
Water certainly cannot be lacking in your horse herd, as each of them drinks between 20 and 60 litres per day. So always leave water available for them and make sure that the drinking troughs are always well cleaned.
Reproduction and calving
The reproductive phase is crucial for new breeders, who must care for the animals and ensure their development. Gestation can last 11 to 12 months, depending on the mare and her physical specifications. It is important to prepare for the event well in advance, making sure that everything runs smoothly.
Our foaling alarm C6 EVO IOT, serves exactly this purpose. A handy sensor is able to detect the first contractions that precede the moment of delivery, activating itself instantly. A message is then sent directly to the smartphone of the horse owner, who has plenty of time to intervene and manage any emergencies. By protecting the mare before and during foaling, you ensure the correct reproduction of the species, offering your herd a peaceful and secure future.
