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Spring Into Action: A Horse’s Guide to Blooming Health and Fitness

By Holly J. Helbig, DVM, Equine Technical Services Veterinarian, Zoetis Ah, spring. That magical time of year when flowers bloom, birds sing, and horses … well, they start to shed enough hair to knit a sweater for a small village. As an equine ambulatory veterinarian, I’ve seen the joys and tribulations of springtime horse care up close and personal. Spring brings not only the promise of warmer days and exciting competitions, but also a slew of healthcare considerations for our four-legged athletes. Fear not! I’m here to guide you through the process with a mix of humor, practical advice, and, of course, a story or two from the field. The Ultimate Spring Horse-Care Checklist 1. Shedding the winter coat: The furry tsunami The first order of business is dealing with the incredible amount of hair your horse decides to shed. Daily grooming is key—not just for your horse’s comfort and health, but to save your barn from becoming a giant hairball. Use a curry comb, shedding blade, and a lo