Light and sound from fireworks can be tough on horses on New Year's Eve. But you can prepare them now so they handle it better. Photo by Malgré Tout
Prevention and management of stress
I cannot expect everyone to adjust their traditions for me, someone who loves animals, especially my horses. Therefore, I have committed myself to training my horses to handle New Year's Eve. And they can!
At the beginning of 2024, I was employed at a stable in the north, bordering a massive military training ground. Bombs were detonated there, shaking the ground, yet the horses didn't bat an eye. They were used to it. So I know it can be done for all other horses, not just mine. With well-adjusted and systematic preparation, New Year's Eve can become a far more pleasant experience for both horses and their owners. A proactive approach not only creates immediate calm but also contributes to long-term security in everyday life.
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However, since New Year's Eve only occurs once a year, it can be difficult to prepare. In this article, I will pass on all my ideas to you. It can be a challenging time for horses due to the increased noise and light levels from fireworks. To minimize stress and optimize the well-being of the horses, it is crucial to prepare them both physically and mentally. Here is a professional overview of preparations and a list of possible actions you can start today.
The professional principles behind preparation
Stress Reduction: Minimizing the horse's position on the stress ladder is crucial to avoid unnecessary activation of the sympathetic nervous system (fight/flight response).
Enrichment: Stimulating the horse’s natural behaviors through activation of foraging behaviors, sense of smell, and chewing activity creates a sense of security and calm.
Habituation: Gradual exposure to fireworks sounds and light effects in safe environments can reduce sound sensitivity.
Self-Regulation: The horse's social intelligence makes it sensitive to your body language and state of mind, which is why your own calmness plays a significant role.
On the day at the time – Preparatory activities
1. Physical and mental activation
Exercise and Training:
Provide plenty of exercise earlier in the day to reduce excess energy. Consider the following:
Trail riding: Possibly with others, for social and mental stimulation.
Liberty training: To strengthen trust and cohesion.
Nose work exercises: Where the horse searches for hidden scents to activate the sense of smell.
Exercise and mental stimulation are essential for reducing stress in horses. Photo by Malgré Tout
2. Enrichment in the stable
Feed enrichment: Give the horse something extra to chew on to keep it occupied. Try the following:
Hide carrots or apples in hay nets, slow feeders, or homemade feed containers.
Add spruce branches from unsprayed plantations for natural chewing activity.
Chewing Behavior: Provide ample roughage, adjusted to the horse's condition, possibly mixed with seed grass or straw to increase chewing time.
3. Stimulation of the sense of smell
Add calming scents by applying, for example, lavender oil to:
The wooden parts of the stable.
A hanging cloth in front of the stable in a place where the horse cannot reach it. Remember that scents can be overwhelming, so use them sparingly so they are only mildly present.
About Line Hummel
With her business Hestekræfter (Horsepower), Line Hummel offers webinars and organizes training for equestrian pairs who wish to develop together. Often, these are pairs that either have a problem or wish to achieve better communication. In Line's business, there is no template for how a horse and rider should conduct themselves. Therefore, Line's work specifically involves getting to know the unique characteristics of each pair and tailoring a development program based on that.
4. Nutritional support
Consider adding calming herbs or a calming supplement to the horse's feed in the days leading up to New Year's Eve. For example:
Chamomile
Lemon balm
Stress-reducing supplement, available from various feed brands. Adjust the amount as needed, based on the horse’s weight and individual reactions.
5. Adjusting the stable environment
Soundproofing by closing doors and windows.
Music for noise masking. There are many mindfulness playlists and relaxing natural sounds available on various music services that can serve as calming background noise on New Year's Eve.
Gradually start playing music in the days leading up to New Year’s Eve if the horses are not accustomed to music.
Handling during New Year's Eve
Bring the horses in earlier in the evening to avoid exposure to early fireworks.
Give them a relaxing grooming session.
Keep the stable environment calm and free from overwhelming stimuli.
Give the horses more to chew on and occupy themselves with on New Year's Eve. Close doors and windows and, if possible, shield from the light from rockets. Photo by Malgré Tout
Before the actual day
The following will help your horse if you start now!
Habituation to fireworks
Play fireworks sounds through speakers at a low volume during feeding or while spending time in the stable.
Gradually increase the volume over days or weeks to reduce sensitivity to sudden sounds.
Here is a link to my podcast, where I have included a link with sounds from New Year's fireworks. The first part has many sounds, the last part has pauses between the fireworks.
Remember to praise the horse when it relaxes and be mindful not to transfer your worries to the horse.
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7. Long-term use of calming herbs
Some feed brands suggest using calming herbs over an extended period to achieve the desired effect. It's a good idea to test any new product well in advance to understand how your horse or pony reacts to it.
8. Self-regulation
Ensure that you are mentally and physically relaxed and present when with your horse:
Focus on deep breathing and calm body language.
Avoid staring at a nervous horse, as it can amplify its insecurity.
After New Year's Eve
It's important to help horses transition back to their regular routine and ensure they are calm after the potentially stressful holiday. Here are some steps to consider:
Restore routine: As soon as possible, return to the normal feeding, exercise, and grooming schedule. Consistency helps reassure horses.
Observe behavior: Pay close attention to the horses' behaviors following New Year's Eve to catch any signs of continued stress or anxiety early. Changes in eating habits, signs of agitation, or unusual lethargy may require attention.
Physical check: Give each horse a thorough physical check to ensure they haven’t sustained any injuries if they were startled or stressed during the festivities.
Outdoor time: Allow the horses plenty of time outdoors. Being in a natural, open environment can help them relax and recover from any stress.
"I like to let them out once the New Year's celebration is over, so I can sleep in, knowing they are out grazing in their large paddock and possibly walking off any stress hormones." Line Hummel
Debrief and learn: Reflect on how the preparations for New Year’s Eve worked and take note of what could be improved for next year. This could include adjusting the timing of certain activities, adding more soundproofing, or tweaking the enrichment activities provided.
Allow them a long and relaxing ride in the terrain, preferably in the company of other horses. This helps them unwind and enjoy social interaction, which is beneficial for their overall well-being.
"Often, I have a slight hangover, so a long walk in the forest with my husband and two horses in hand is the best New Year's Day activity I can think of.
If I'm lucky, I'll also get my children to join us on the tour this year.
Happy New Year to you and your horses." Line Hummel
A walk in the terrain is good for both horses and owners on New Year's Day, and feel free to bring the whole family along. Photo by Line Hummel
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