How to Keep Your Horses Safe

Horses in Florida are the latest target of equine thieves. These hooligans are terrorizing local barns and stables in an attempt to steal and resell horses.

Some steps that seem to work in keeping horses safe are security systems consisting of monitors and cameras. These have been effective in both deterring and apprehending equine criminals. Proper lighting and lock systems is also a great deterrent.

The open pasture may seem hard to protect, but a clever owner can always keep their horses safe through creativity and ingenuity. Try going on patrols or even obtaining large long range alarm systems to secure the entire ranch.

Bringing the horses in closer to your home at night is another way to look after your equine friend without the use of expensive security systems. A simple baby monitor could be placed in the home and near the horse containment area to protect against theft.

Criminals captured on video tape can always be caught later if your deterrent systems fail. This of course is only useful if you've been determined enough to set up a video recording system and a set of outdoor cameras with both day and night vision.

It is always a good idea to be well prepared for any sort of patrolling you may decide to do. Make sure to bring a phone, multiple flashlights, and some sort of self defense weapon. You do not want to try and confront any thief if you don't have to, but its nice to be prepared in the event you must.

Multi-tools come in many different brands and varieties and can be great patrol companions. You can purchase these from many online and brick and mortar stores. Make sure to always have one of these handy little tools when patrolling.

One more thought- if you are able to catch and subdue someone who has been messing about, you will need a way to contain them. In my pouch with my multi tool are two lengths of sturdy climbing rope. It comes in handy for emergency repairs, but would also double nicely to hog tie a bad guy. Be smart, be safe, and be wary. Have the tools at hand to do the job, to keep your horses safe from this horror.