Constraints Affecting Equine Management Practices among Horse Owners in South Gujarat, India
D. C. Moliya *
Department of Livestock Production Management, College of Veterinary Science & AH, Kamdhenu University, Rajpur (Nava), Himmatnagar-383010, Gujarat, India.
L. M. Sorathiya
Department of Livestock Farm Complex, College of Veterinary Science & AH, Kamdhenu University, Rajpur (Nava), Himmatnagar-383010, Gujarat, India.
K. J. Ankuya
Department of Livestock Production Management, College of Veterinary Science & AH, Kamdhenu University, Rajpur (Nava), Himmatnagar-383010, Gujarat, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Horses (Equus ferus caballus) contribute to rural livelihoods, transport, ceremonial activities, and recreation, but their welfare and productivity may be affected by limitations in routine management. The present study was conducted to analyse the constraints affecting equine management practices among horse owners in South Gujarat, India, with particular emphasis on the deworming and reproductive management of foals. Horses (Equus ferus caballus) play a vital role in rural livelihoods, socio-cultural functions, and working-equid systems; however, their management under field conditions remains suboptimal in many developing regions. A total of 150 horse owners were selected using a proportionate random sampling technique, and data were collected through a pre-tested structured interview schedule. The study encompassed housing, feeding, breeding, healthcare practices (including vaccination and deworming), behavioural management, and socio-economic constraints. The findings revealed that the high cost of construction (71.33%; 107/150) was the most frequently reported housing constraint, followed by limited space (28.67%; 43/150), with a highly significant difference (χ² = 19.44, p < 0.001). In breeding management, the lack of superior pedigree animals (34.00%; 51/150) and the high cost of pedigree horses (26.00%; 39/150) were major concerns (χ² = 8.91, p < 0.05). Feeding constraints were primarily related to the lack of marketed feed supplies (36.00%; 54/150) and the high cost of feed (30.00%; 45/150), with significant variation among the reported constraints (χ² = 18.24, p < 0.001). Healthcare challenges included the high cost of veterinary medicines (27.33%; 41/150), the distant location of veterinary hospitals (17.33%; 26/150), and the untimely availability of vaccines (14.67%; 22/150), with a highly significant difference among the constraints (χ² = 39.31, p < 0.001). Although awareness of deworming existed, gaps in systematic scheduling were observed. Overall, the study indicated moderate adoption of recommended practices, with notable deficiencies affecting equine welfare. The results emphasise the need to strengthen extension services, improve access to veterinary care, promote scientific feeding and housing, and enhance awareness of reproductive and deworming practices. These interventions are important for improving management efficiency and supporting the sustainable welfare of horses in South Gujarat.
Keywords: Equine management, horse owners, management constraints, housing practices, feeding practices, breeding management, veterinary services, deworming, equine welfare