Symptom and solution: wallowing horse

The fact that your horse roll over It may mean that you are trying to scratch your back, or that you are trying to protect yourself from insects such as flies by covering themselves in dust. They can even do it to get rid of dead hair. In turn, it can be a sign of colic, when it begins to be serious. However, there is no need to be alarmed if your horse rolls over when you let him go after being in the box, as he just wants to stretch a little. Both that and a sporadic romp if your horse lives loose are normal, so you should not worry.

You must take into account several things to know if this behavior is normal or not. Here are some questions What you must answer to find out: Does the horse get up after rolling over? Does it shake like dogs after getting up? If it is loose in the field, does it continue to eat? If it is stabled, does it look around with its ears up? front and eyes alive?

If the answer is yes in most cases, you shouldn't worry, as it was probably scratching. For safety, you can look at him again after a while but nothing should happen. On the contrary, if in general your answers were a no, you should call the vet immediatelyas you could have colic. It would also do you good to learn what you could do for him while you wait for the vet, if you suspect colic.

And when the topic is about insects ...

If your horse wallows frequently without any apparent signs of colic or anything like that, it is almost certainly from annoying flies. In summer, especially, insects and flies are a real nuisance, so the horse will want to roll in the mud or dirt to avoid being bitten. Here I tell you some Tricks to help them with this task without having to resort to chemicals such as repellants or eminently toxic insecticides.

• Shower often to remove sweat from your skin, which attracts stinging insects.
• You can put a mesh mosquito net for the face, with ear flaps (especially if it is loose).
• If it is in the shade the flies will attack it less.
• Mix one part of bath oil, of any kind (almond oil, rosehip oil ...), with three of water, and spray it at least once a day. Do not worry that it will not be toxic.