Generally every two to three days but it will vary based on weather and how much your horse drinks. You will smell when the bucket gets a bit funky… and so will your horse. Mine avoid anything that seems off.
I want to make sure my horse is getting the benefit of the herb or spice. How do I make sure they are consuming it?
If you want to be sure your horse is having some you can sprinkle some of the pouch contents on their feed.
My horses don't seem to be drinking everything. Is something wrong?
That’s perfectly normal! Water buffets are about choice and enrichment. I have water, coffee, almond milk, juice, soda water, wine and beer in my refrigerator. It doesn’t mean I drink each one every day. :)
This seems like it's for herds in big pastures. My horse is stalled and turned out in an individual paddock.
Even better that they have novel stimulation to keep them occupied! And a water buffet doesn’t have to be several buckets. You can offer one different herb or spice in addition to a plain bucket of water and that qualifies. Rotating through flavors keeps life interesting.
What are some other ways I can use these herbs and spices?
Some horses love the taste of beetroot powder so much it can be used to entice them to finish feed and/or take medications. Finding a flavor your horse likes may make it easier to keep them hydrated when you are traveling to shows, seminars or trail riding as it helps mask the taste of “strange water.” A bucket after performing can aid in recovering from physically demanding events and help moderate stress.