How Horse Farms Work During COVID-19 Pandemic?

The Covid-19 pandemic has introduced unprecedented uncertainty into every facet of human existence. Owners of horse farms and equestrian estates are not exempt. Governments have placed strict restrictions on movement and social gatherings in a bid to stem the spread of the virus. Specifically to the animal rearing industry, there are government regulations in some quarters suspending nonessential workers and implementing strict compliance measures for essential employees. Horse owners are not strangers to the idea of isolation as a means of curbing the spread of epidemics. Social distancing and isolation are regular disease prevention practices in most horse farms. As a horse property owner, here are some measures you can put in place to keep your business running during this period:

Develop Plans for your horses

This is a great time to develop alternative plans for the care of your horses. The future is still uncertain, so things may get worse before they get better, so you have to be prepared. The nature of the plan you implement will depend on the size of your farm. You could make arrangements to move your horses to another farm. However, that will only work if your farm is small or you have just a few horses. This arrangement has to be made in advance so that adequate arrangements can be made for your horses when the time arises.

Cancel the nonessentials

The best way to prevent catching the virus is by reducing exposure. Thus, you have to make sure that you implement measures to reduce coming in contact with people. Also, your property should not host gatherings such as riding lessons, etc., so farm staff don’t come in contact with the virus. If you must schedule lessons, then do so for just a few people at a time. In that way, they can stand at least six feet apart, appropriately implementing social distancing.

Practice how to work remotely. Several apps make that possible; you may want to check them out. Also, written instructions and phone conversations can replace a lot of face to face communication. Any option that reduces human-to-human contact should be applied.

Implement safety practices

At this moment, there is still no vaccine for the novel coronavirus. It is imperative then that you practise safety precautions such as washing your hands and making use of hand sanitizers. Wash your hands for at least twenty seconds, especially when you have been in a public gathering. Wash thoroughly, taking particular care to scrub under your nails and between your fingers.

Alternatively, if you immediately cannot have access to soap and water, you can make use of hand sanitizers. The hand sanitizers should be 60% alcohol-based. Rub thoroughly on your hand till it becomes dry. Also, avoid touching your nose, mouth, and eyes. Keep your hands away from your face. If you are sick, stay home. These practices should be observed by everyone on your farm to be effective.

There are some preemptive measures you can put in place too. You should carry out your spring vaccinations as soon as possible. Order sanitation supplies in advance. one or two months’ worth of supply should be enough. Also, order feed. Fix fences, railings, etc. Make sure that any repairs that need to be carried out are done as soon as possible.

Utilize Standard Operating Proceeds (SOPs)

This measure is supposed to kick in if you ever get sick or have to go into quarantine. It will ensure that the farm keeps operating smoothly and that there is a quick transition to whoever takes over. This might be an excellent time to incorporate family and friends into your business. You have to select those that will become alternative workers if you are absent. Then you will have to bring them up to speed regarding payments, supplies, etc. If you provide boarding and accommodation for workers, you have to make alternative plans for those too. If the living space has to be disinfected, you will need an alternative. So will your workers. You have to prepare in advance for this scenario.

There is no indication that animals are in danger of the novel coronavirus. However, it doesn’t hurt to be cautious. Thus, if you are sick, it is not just enough to stay away from human contact, you should stay away from your horses too. There is hardly a failsafe plan when it comes to situations such as this, being proactive can make a lot of difference for you and everyone around you.

Bio

Louis Robidoux is a blogger who enjoys writing articles that are of great interest to society. After having lots of posts published on different platforms, Louis decided to create his own site https://deeptop10.com/ where he’s covering topics about food, interesting hacks and lifestyle.