It’s OK to Worry About Your Horse – But Not Too Much

As a horse owner or someone who leases a horse, it’s normal to feel a sense of responsibility for your horse’s well-being. It’s just like having a kid - our horses are our children. From feed, tack and equipment, mental health and behavior, countless aspects of care need attention. It's natural to worry about these things—after all, horses depend on us for their health, happiness, and safety. However, that worry can sometimes become overwhelming, consuming more of your thoughts than it should. While it’s admirable to care so deeply about your horse, excessive worry can negatively impact your mental health, relationship with your equine partner, and life in general.

Why You Worry – and Why That’s OK

Worrying is a sign that you care. More than half the time, horses need to be double and maybe even triple-wrapped in bubble wrap. They are sensitive and have complex needs, and as their owner/lessee, you naturally want to ensure they are happy, healthy, and comfortable. It’s easy to overanalyze their behavior or stress about whether they’re eating the right things, if their saddle is rubbing, or whether that subtle limp means something more serious. Since we can’t ask them, it’s understandable to feel a bit anxious trying to interpret their needs.

From wondering if their feed is balanced correctly to keeping an eye on their behavior in the paddock, there are countless things to consider. Your concern stems from a good place, and it helps you stay vigilant about their care.

When Worry Turns Unhealthy

While some level of worry is natural, when it becomes constant or overwhelming, it’s time to pause and reflect. Excessive worry can lead to mental burnout, anxiety, and a general sense of unease. If you find yourself constantly thinking about your horse's health to the point where it’s impacting your daily life, relationship with friends, family and/or your significant other, or even your sleep, it’s a sign that you need to reframe your mindset.

Too much stress doesn’t just affect you—it can negatively impact the bond you share with your horse. Your emotions, energy, and anxiety are going to be picked up by your horse and they will start to feel more on edge.

Finding Balance: Focus on One Thing at a Time

If you find that your worry is becoming overwhelming, a useful strategy is to focus on addressing one thing at a time. Instead of trying to solve every potential issue all at once, break it down:

1. Physical Health: If you’re worried about their physical well-being, schedule a check-up with your vet. This will give you peace of mind and allow you to address any potential issues head-on.

2. Mental Stimulation: If you’re concerned about your horse's mental health or boredom, try incorporating variety into their routine, such as trail rides, new exercises, or enrichment activities like ground games.

3. Tack and Equipment: Worried about tack fit? Invest time in consulting with a professional saddle fitter or equine bodyworker to ensure your horse is comfortable.

4. Nutrition: Speak with an equine nutritionist who can evaluate your horse and their current feeding program to ensure it is all working together.

By addressing your concerns one at a time, you can make meaningful improvements without becoming overwhelmed.

The Importance of Self-Care

Taking care of your mental health is just as important as caring for your horse. Set aside time for yourself, and don't hesitate to seek support from fellow equestrians or professionals if you need it. A healthy, balanced mind will not only benefit you but also make you a more attuned and effective caregiver for your horse.

But remember, it is perfectly normal to worry about your horse—whether you own or lease—but it’s important to recognize when that worry becomes excessive. Strive for balance, focus on one thing at a time, and remember that you can’t control everything. Taking care of both your horse and your own mental health will ultimately lead to a happier, healthier partnership.

Your horse counts on you to be a calm, confident leader, and by keeping your worries in check, you'll both thrive.