When is it safe to turn the horse out on grass?

Hi!

I understand that all the information about grazing and horses can be confusing.

Horses are built to eat grass and to roam about searching for it for much of their waking day. As owners, we replace that natural grass with feed during the periods when there is no fresh grass, or for most of the time if the horse cannot have ad-lib grazing because of a risk such as laminitis.

A horse does not have to be out on grass, but turnout is a good chance over the summer to save money and let the horse "be a horse" alongside its field companions, spending longer spells in the paddock eating grass rather than feed. Base everything on what suits your individual horse and on the conditions where you keep it.

Some horses have had conditions linked to grazing, such as laminitis, and may need limited turnout or none at all. Speak to your vet if you are unsure about your horse's history.

You can also turn horses out for part of the day. It is sometimes helpful to bring them in during the hottest part of the day, or at the times when the insects are at their worst.

I hope this answers your questions. If not, do ask again!😊🦄