As COVID-19 continues to spread across our state, having an emergency plan is more important than ever. Whether you have a boarding facility (small or large) or care for your own horses, we urge you to have a plan in place in the event you (and/or your staff) become ill. Things to keep in mind when creating a plan are:
Who will care for the horses if I fall ill and am unable to care for them?
If an individual or two do not come to mind, there are many emergency caretaker groups being formed. Connecting with a group like this or reaching out to your local equine community could help you create a safety net to ensure your horses are cared for in the event you become ill.
What feed and supplements are my horses getting?
If someone does need to step in and care for your horse, it’s important to have the horse’s feed schedule laid out for that individual. This should be in a spot easily accessible to others, such as in the feed room, office, tack room, or cabinet in the barn.
Do I have enough feed, supplements, and hay to last me 30 days?
We are still uncertain how COVID-19 will affect horse owners and boarding facilities from getting the feed and supply they need. For that reason, it’s important not to panic, but to have supplies on hand that can help you weather a shortage and limit your exposure to public spaces (as per state and municipal recommendations). If your storage is limited, keep in contact with your suppliers and keep their contact information readily available.
Other considerations for an emergency plan include a compilation of information such as:
•Contact information for power of attorney, veterinarian, farrier, other equine health providers, and hay, feed, and supplement suppliers.
•Information on your horses including age, breed, equine health issues, and location of vet records.
by Sarah E.J. Collier
Recording Secretary, New York State Horse Council
sarah.collier@nyshc.org • www.NYSHC.org
