Caring for a horse during lockdown has been a challenge that horse owners and riders have had to face since the government first announced the nationwide lockdown. Horse enthusiasts and professionals scrambled to make sure that the horses would be well cared for during the period of the lockdown, even though the length of which was uncertain. Luckily, vet care was considered an essential service, and permitted equine vets to see their patients as, and when, it was necessary.
Horses need exercise for physical and mental health, just as we do. During the lockdown, many stable yards made arrangements for staff to remain on the property and able to keep their distance as per social distancing measures. Staff exercised the horses, monitored feed and health, and reported any issues to veterinarians.
Riders and owners have been eagerly awaiting news from the government, and have been keeping up to date with the regular restriction updates as they came about. Finally, with the announcement of Level 2 lockdown, lockdown restrictions have been relaxed, and riders and owners can visit their horses and take care of them, provided they abide by the rules supplied by the stabling establishment.
Horse Care During Level 2 Lockdown
Now that lockdown restrictions are slowly letting up, people are allowed to engage in non-contact sports like horse riding.
With the relaxed current restrictions, horse owners and riders will be permitted to exercise their horses, have one-on-one lessons with instructors and be able to visit their horses.
The following lockdown rules must be adhered to remain safe and maintain the safety of those around you:
- Do not visit your horse or go riding if you are showing any symptoms of being sick, or if you have been in contact with someone who has been tested positive for COVID-19.
- Remain two metres apart from other people
- Wear a face mask at all times
- Wash your hands with soap both when entering the yard and leaving it
It is the duty of the stable yard to ensure that all compliance is met, that all safety equipment is supplied, and that the rules adhered to. For all things horse riding equipment related, give us a call!