‘Water buffets’ are becoming more popular with equestrians as a way of providing enrichment to horses and ponies. Water buffets are set up by placing multiple buckets normally in a field or track system, one containing plain water, and adding different herbs to the others.
Water buffets encourage horses and ponies to seek out specific herbs and minerals, allowing them to self-select the nutrients they need, just like they would in their natural habitat.
It’s interesting to watch your horse or pony to see which herbs they choose. Click the link to watch the video of Blue Cross horses and ponies self selecting the herbs their instinct tells them they need:
With the hot weather upon us, water buffets are also a great way to keep your horse or pony hydrated and healthy.
Lots of different herbs can be used for water buffets, here are a few of our favourites for the Summer:
Beetroot – Packed with anti-oxidants and a great source of slow release energy.
Cinnamon – Ideal for overweight horses/ponies, supporting blood glucose levels.
Garlic Granules/Grains – Great for helping to repel flies and support the respiratory system.
Chamomile – A natural stress reliever.
Spearmint – Helps to ease the digestion system and can encourage fussy horses to drink.
Nettles – A great source of iron, supports liver and kidney function.
