Thunder and lightning can be a frightening experience for many animals, including horses. Horses are sensitive to changes in the environment and are particularly sensitive to loud noises like thunder claps and the bright flashes of lightning. It is natural for horse owners to be concerned about how their horses will respond to thunder and lightning and whether or not it is safe to keep them outside during a storm. In this article, we will explore the risks associated with thunder and lightning for horses, and provide tips on how to best care for them during a storm.
What is Thunder and Lightning?
Thunder and lightning are both forms of atmospheric electricity. When a thunderstorm is brewing, the air is filled with electrical charges that build up and cause an electrical discharge, resulting in a flash of light (lightning) and a loud clap of sound (thunder). Thunderstorms can occur anywhere in the world, but they are most common in the summer months.
How Do Horses React to Thunder and Lightning?
Horses can be very sensitive to changes in the environment, and thunder and lightning can be a very frightening experience for them. Horses are particularly sensitive to the loud claps of thunder, as well as the bright flashes of lightning. When a thunderstorm begins, horses may become agitated, anxious, restless, or spooked. They may also try to run away from the storm, or attempt to hide from it in a corner of their enclosure.
Are Horses in Danger During a Thunderstorm?
Horses can be in danger during a thunderstorm, although the risks vary depending on the location and severity of the storm. In some cases, the risk of injury or death is low, while in other cases the risk can be much higher. The most common risks associated with thunder and lightning include:
- Lightning Strikes: Lightning strikes can cause direct injury or death to horses, as well as fires and other damage to their enclosures.
- Flooding: Heavy rain can cause flash flooding, which can pose a drowning risk to horses.
- Falling Trees: High winds can cause trees to fall, and falling trees can cause injury to horses.
- Debris: High winds can also cause debris to be thrown around, which can cause injury to horses.
How to Keep Horses Safe During a Thunderstorm
There are several steps horse owners can take to keep their horses safe during a thunderstorm. The most important thing is to ensure that the horse has access to a safe, secure enclosure. The enclosure should be large enough for the horse to move around, and it should have adequate shelter from the elements. Here are some other tips for keeping horses safe during a thunderstorm:
- Keep horses away from tall trees and other structures that could be damaged by lightning strikes.
- Secure any loose items that could be thrown around by high winds.
- Monitor the weather closely and be prepared to move horses to higher ground if flooding becomes a risk.
- Provide horses with a safe place to hide, such as a stall or small enclosure.
- Provide horses with blankets or hoods to reduce their level of stress during a storm.
- Limit the amount of time horses are left outside during a storm.
Can Horses be Trained to Handle Thunder and Lightning?
Horses can be trained to handle thunder and lightning, although it is important to remember that each horse is different and may respond differently to a storm. Training should focus on helping the horse become familiar with the sights and sounds of thunder and lightning, as well as teaching them to remain calm in the face of loud noises. Training should be done gradually, starting with a low-level storm and gradually building up to more severe storms.
Desensitization Techniques
Desensitization techniques can help horses become more used to thunder and lightning. Desensitization techniques involve exposing the horse to a low-level version of the stimulus (in this case, thunder and lightning), and gradually increasing the intensity of the stimulus until the horse is more comfortable with it. This can be done by exposing the horse to a recording of thunder and lightning, or by taking the horse outside during a light thunderstorm.
Counterconditioning Techniques
Counterconditioning techniques can also help horses become more comfortable with thunder and lightning. Counterconditioning involves desensitizing the horse to the stimulus, as well as teaching them to associate it with something positive, such as treats or praise. For example, when a thunderclap occurs, the horse should be given a treat or praised, which will help them to associate thunder with something positive.
Conclusion
Thunder and lightning can be a frightening experience for horses, and it is important for horse owners to be aware of the risks associated with storms and how to best care for their horses during them. Horses can be trained to become more comfortable with thunder and lightning, and there are several steps that can be taken to keep them safe during a storm. By following these tips, horse owners can help ensure that their horses are safe and secure during a thunderstorm.
References
- https://www.extension.iastate.edu/4h/thunder-and-lightning-safety-horses
- https://www.thesprucepets.com/keeping-horses-safe-during-a-storm-1886781
- https://blog.equisafety.com/keeping-horses-safe-during-storms/
- https://equimed.com/horse-care/general-care/keeping-horses-safe-during-thunderstorms