What to Track in a Horse’s Health Journal And Why It Matters

Keeping a detailed health journal for your horse is one of the most important practices a responsible owner or caretaker can adopt. This blog explains what to track in your horse’s health journal, why it matters, and how thorough record-keeping can support your horse’s long-term wellbeing and performance. Whether you manage one horse or a large stable, a health journal helps you recognise early warning signs of illness, communicate more effectively with your veterinarian, and optimise daily care.

Introduction

A horse’s health journal is a comprehensive record of everything related to its physical condition, behaviour, nutrition, and medical history. Much more than simple note-taking, it serves as a powerful tool to detect subtle changes that could indicate health problems, monitor recovery from injury, and ensure optimal nutrition and management. Horses, like people, have individual health needs that evolve over time. Maintaining a health journal allows you to personalise care and make informed decisions that enhance your horse’s quality of life.

In this article, we will explore what specific information to record, how to do it effectively, and why each metric is valuable. This guide will equip you with expert knowledge and practical tips to create a health journal that supports your horse’s ongoing wellbeing.

Understanding the Purpose of a Horse Health Journal

Before diving into what to track, it’s essential to understand why a health journal is so valuable:

• Early Detection of Health Issues: Horses often mask pain and discomfort. Tracking daily signs helps spot small changes before they become serious problems.

• Improved Communication: Vets, farriers, and trainers gain clearer insights from detailed records, enabling more precise diagnosis and treatment.

• Monitoring Long-Term Trends: Regularly logging data reveals patterns in your horse’s health, informing nutrition, workload, and care adjustments.

• Legal and Insurance Documentation: In some cases, detailed records can support insurance claims or legal matters regarding animal welfare.

Key Health Metrics to Record Daily

Feeding Habits and Appetite Changes

• Note the type and amount of feed given each day.

• Record any refusals or changes in appetite, as these can signal digestive or dental issues.

Water Intake and Hydration Status

• Track daily water consumption.

• Reduced drinking can be an early sign of illness, dehydration, or stress.

General Behaviour and Mood Observations

• Is the horse more restless, lethargic, or anxious than usual?

• Note social interactions with other horses and responsiveness to handling.

Exercise Routines and Workload

• Document type, duration, and intensity of exercise or work.

• Record rest days and any deviations from normal routines.

Monitoring Physical Health Signs

Vital Signs to Track

• Temperature: Normal range is typically 37.5°C to 38.5°C.

• Pulse: Count beats per minute; normal resting is 28–44 bpm.

• Respiration: Normal rate is 8–16 breaths per minute.

• Use consistent times and methods for accuracy.

Weight Changes and Body Condition Scoring (BCS)

• Regularly weigh or estimate weight using a weight tape.

• Use a BCS chart (scale 1–9) to evaluate fat cover and muscle tone.

• Note any rapid weight loss or gain.

Coat Quality, Shedding Patterns, and Skin Health

• Observe shine, texture, and hair loss.

• Record any skin irritations, bumps, or parasites.

Hoof Condition and Shoeing Records

• Keep track of hoof growth, cracks, or abnormalities.

• Record farrier visits, shoeing dates, and any changes in hoof care.

Tracking Veterinary Visits and Medical Treatments

Dates and Reasons for Veterinary Check-Ups

• Note all vet visits with detailed reasons and outcomes.

Vaccinations, Deworming, and Parasite Control Schedules

• Track dates and types of vaccines administered.

• Record deworming agents used and dates to monitor effectiveness.

Medication Dosages, Administration Times, and Reactions

• Log prescribed treatments, doses, and duration.

• Include observations of side effects or improvements.

Recording Injuries and Illness Symptoms

Detailed Notes on Wounds, Lameness, or Discomfort

• Describe location, size, and appearance of injuries.

• Record any treatments or bandaging applied.

Duration, Progression, and Response to Treatment

• Track healing progress with dates and observations.

• Note any setbacks or worsening symptoms.

Signs of Colic, Respiratory Issues, or Digestive Problems

• Monitor behaviour such as rolling, pawing, or coughing.

• Log changes in manure consistency, appetite, or breathing.

Monitoring Joint and Mobility Health

Observations on Stiffness, Swelling, or Reduced Movement

• Record morning stiffness or stiffness after rest.

• Note any visible joint swelling or heat.

Effects of Supplements or Therapies on Joint Health

• Track supplement start dates and any noticeable benefits.

• Document therapy sessions like physiotherapy or massage.

Changes in Gait or Performance Levels

• Monitor for limping, favouring limbs, or reluctance to move.

• Note any sudden drops in performance or endurance.

Behaviour and Mental Well-being Observations

Anxiety, Stress Indicators, or Changes in Social Interaction

• Note nail biting, pacing, or aggression.

• Observe withdrawal from herd or human interaction.

Responses to Training, Environmental Changes, or Travel

• Record nervousness or excitement levels.

• Log any behavioural changes during transport or new environments.

Sleep Patterns and Rest Quality

• Observe resting postures and duration of sleep phases.

• Note disruptions or frequent awakenings.

Environmental and Seasonal Factors to Note

Changes in Stabling, Pasture, or Weather Conditions

• Record weather extremes like heatwaves or heavy rain.

• Note pasture quality, new plants, or changes in turnout time.

Impact of Seasonal Allergies or Parasites

• Document itching, swelling, or seasonal coughs.

• Record parasite outbreaks and control measures.

Adjustments in Feeding or Care Routines

• Log changes to diet, supplements, or workload due to season.

• Track new bedding types or changes in water availability.

Using Technology to Enhance Your Health Journal

Digital Apps and Tools for Tracking Equine Health

• Recommend apps designed for horse health logging.

• Benefits include reminders, easy data entry, and record sharing.

Benefits of Photo and Video Documentation

• Use photos for wounds, swelling, or gait irregularities.

• Videos assist vets and trainers in assessing movement and behaviour.

Sharing Records Easily with Professionals

• Facilitate telemedicine or remote consultations.

• Maintain backups for security and accessibility.

How to Review and Use Your Horse’s Health Journal Effectively

Identifying Patterns and Potential Health Issues Early

• Use data trends to predict and prevent illness.

• Recognise gradual changes missed in casual observation.

Communicating Accurate Information to Vets and Farriers

• Provide detailed, dated records to improve diagnosis and treatment.

• Prepare summaries before appointments to maximise vet time.

Making Informed Decisions on Nutrition, Training, and Management

• Adjust feed or exercise based on documented responses.

• Plan supplements and therapies with evidence of efficacy.

Conclusion

Maintaining a detailed horse health journal is an essential aspect of responsible equine care. Through consistent tracking of physical signs, behaviour, medical treatments, and environmental factors, owners can detect health issues early, optimise daily management, and enhance their horse’s quality of life. By integrating technology and reviewing records regularly, you create a powerful resource that supports expert decision-making and fosters long-term wellbeing. Start your health journal today to build a deeper understanding of your horse’s unique needs and ensure they thrive for years to come.