As I’ve been going through my recovery and concentrating on one day at a time, I’ve learned a few things. One is that even though most days I feel like there is some progress (even if it is just a little), some days aren’t so good.
My nurse told me that until my body accepts the new plates and screws in my body, I will have bad days that seem out of the blue (bad days for no apparent reason).
If you know me, I love to do research and look for the “whys”. So this was no exception.
In doing my research I found out a lot about how the body can have a few good days in a row and then all of a sudden it feels like you got hit by a Mac Truck! It still amazes me how the body works, wants to heal, and overcompensates when there is an injury.
And that got me thinking…what about my horse?
He just moved to a new facility and I can’t get out there as often due to my injury. My horse knows I’m hurt and when I go out he runs to the gate to greet me. He seems like he’s having fun and he seems happy.
But when I’m not there, how is he? Does he have good days or bad days?
Well, I think we all have good days and bad days, ups and downs, and so do our horses.
Various factors can influence a horse’s mood, behavior, and overall well-being.
Here are some factors that can contribute to a horse having good or bad days:
- Health:
A horse’s physical condition plays a significant role in its overall mood and demeanor. If a horse is in good health, it’s more likely to have a positive attitude and energy levels. Conversely, illness, pain, or discomfort can contribute to a bad day for a horse.
- Environment:
The surroundings and living conditions of a horse can affect its mood. Horses are generally more content in a clean, well-maintained environment with proper shelter and access to food and water.
- Social Interaction:
Horses are social animals, and their interactions with other horses, animals, or humans can influence their mood. Positive social interactions, such as grooming or play, can contribute to a good day, while negative interactions or isolation may lead to a bad day.
- Training and Exercise:
Proper training and regular exercise are essential for a horse’s physical and mental well-being. A well-exercised and mentally stimulated horse is more likely to be content and less prone to behavioral issues.
- Nutrition:
A balanced and appropriate diet is crucial for a horse’s health. Nutritional imbalances or deficiencies can impact a horse’s mood and energy levels.
- Routine and Consistency:
Horses thrive on routine and consistency. Sudden changes in their daily routine or environment can cause stress and potentially lead to a bad day.
- Weather Conditions:
Extreme weather conditions, such as extreme heat, cold, or heavy rain, can affect a horse’s comfort and well-being.
All of these items make a difference in our horse’s mental, emotional, and physical well-being.
My first priority is always to keep my horses healthy, happy, and in good condition. I want them to have more good days than bad and if I can help with that, I’m all over it. But I do understand that if they have a bad day, it’s ok. And I will do everything I can to help them get through it.
That will be next week’s discussion.
Until then, have a great weekend, and Happy Horses!
