Environmental and behavioral enrichment has many benefits for mental and physical health. The information presented on this website and our social media is designed to give information and inspiration for horse caregivers but never to take the place of veterinary or hands-on behavioral advice.
Remember, enrichment is a broad and complex branch of animal care. While appropriately planned and implemented enrichment can positively impact equine health and wellbeing, enrichment should never be applied as a solution for medical or behavioral concerns in the absence of hands-on professional advice. Enrichment cannot substitute for the fundamentals of good horse care – if basic needs are not met, no enrichment activity or item can take their place. These basic needs include the need for professional medical care, quality nutrition, and equine-appropriate housing. Enriching Equines believes strongly that encouraging natural behaviors through enrichment can make horses happier and healthier, but enrichment alone should not be expected to resolve illness, injuries, or training problems. Many equine “behavior problems” have physical origins; while enrichment can be an important part of a behavior management strategy, resolving underlying issues in health or husbandry should take place before turning to environmental enrichment.
Enrichment activities are fun and enjoyable, but are also a real and impactful addition to your horse’s routine and lifestyle. You should always consult your horse’s care team, including veterinarian, hoof care practitioner, and trainer, when planning lifestyle changes including the addition of enrichment. No information or instructions on this web site is designed to take the place of hands-on professional care of your horse.
Enrichment involves creating new opportunities or items for horses to explore and enjoy. Properly constructed and presented enrichment is very safe, but all activities involving horses carry some risk. Enrichment should always be designed with safety in mind to minimize or eliminate hazards. While we will never knowingly encourage enrichment activities that are unsafe, and will always make every effort to describe potential safety hazards and design considerations for each enrichment activity, you and your horse’s care team know your horse the best. You should offer enrichment in a thoughtful, safety-forward way and tailor each interaction to the individual needs of your horse. Enriching Equines is not liable for harm to humans, horses, or equipment during the course of enrichment activities.