Horse predators come in the two, four, six and eight legged variety. While insects and spiders can cause your horse grief and possibly illness, a greater danger can come from the two and four legged variety. Animal attacks on horses are pretty common and most owners have heard of at least one incident if they live in a rural area. Even close to urban areas, animals attacks are a possibility.

Coyotes, coyote/dog crosses, feral and domestic dogs, wolf, cougar and sometimes even fox, may harass or injure your horses.

This problem is coming more to the fore as our inhabited areas encroach on wild predators natural territories and we  conveniently fence in prey for these animals. Even domestic dogs, out for a wander because their owners haven't contained them properly can threaten horses and other livestock.

Many dogs and coyotes won’t approach a full-grown horse,especially if the predator is alone. Foals and ponies may be particularly susceptible to attack by an individual predator because of their smaller size. In fact, it’s not unusual for a family dog to chase a young foal—requiring swift action on the part of the owner to stop the behavior. But, in a pack, coyotes, dogs, crosses and wolves may be braver and go after a large horse. Dog/coyote or wolf crosses may be more bold than wolves or dogs, because they feel less afraid of humans. Unfortunately, because horses are often accustomed to a family dog around, they may not be as leery and defensive of these predators as they would be of something more unusual to them, such as a cougar.

Cougars are known by many names, such as mountain lion, panther, puma, painter and catamount. But they’re all the same and will regard a horse as likely prey if they happen across one, whether being ridden, or grazing  in a pasture. Black and grizzly bears may also pose a threat. On other continents beyond North America, other predators like dingoes, and big cats like lions can threaten horses. To protect your horse, you need to know what you need to protect them from.

Fencing

Rail and widely spaced wire fences won’t do much to keep predators out. Electric fencing may deter some animals, especially if it is constructed so the strands are close together. A large predator will likely just jump over a low electric fence. Diamond mesh fencing can keep smaller predators out, as well as opossums who carry EPM,  but gates and other gaps may let them through. Keeping horses fenced in a secure area at night, near your home may be enough to dissuade predators from approaching.

 

Stabling

The most simple way to protect your horses against wild predators is to stable them over night. This is simple, but it may not be convenient, and stabling horses for long periods of time comes with its own problems. Stabling your horses means extra work and expense for you, and isn’t the healthiest option for them. Again, a small secure pen may be the better option for your horse.

Guardian Animals

 

Using guardian animals is common practice for sheep and goat farmers. Llamas, alpacas, mules and donkeys will make a fuss if a predator approaches. Dogs will too, but the family dog will probably be more likely to be tucked in bed with you than doing 24x7 duty as a guardian. Geese will raise a noisy ruckus if a predator comes near, and is useful in barn and stable yards. You need to remember too, that any guardian animal you use will be susceptible to attack too.

 

Repellents

Lights, noise and fragrance can be used to repel predators. Flashing or bright lights, sirens or horns and can be hooked up to motion sensors. The downside of this is that the horses themselves may set off the alarms.

 

Eradication

Getting rid of predators rarely works. Clearing wolves, coyotes and other animals out only leaves more room for others to move in. Before putting out poison baits, shooting or trapping consider the impact on other animals and the very likely possibility of a ‘rebound population’. Consult with professionals for advice.