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Why Horses Still Matter on the Great Plains

For centuries, horses were the backbone of survival on the Great Plains. They pulled wagons, carried riders across vast stretches of prairie, and provided the speed and strength needed to thrive in a harsh environment. In a modern world of cars and tractors, it’s easy to forget their value. But for preppers, horses remain a serious option—one that can mean the difference between staying mobile and being stranded if the grid goes down.

Unlike fuel-dependent vehicles, horses run on grass, hay, and oats. They don’t need spare parts shipped from overseas or a mechanic with specialized equipment. With proper care, a horse can be both transport and companion, working in ways that machines can’t when fuel runs dry. And while they require training and commitment, their usefulness in off-grid living is undeniable.

If you’re serious about resilience in the Great Plains, horses deserve a place in your long-term planning. Let’s break down the basics—what they eat, how to care for them, and the gear you’ll need to keep them safe and useful.

Feeding and Nutrition

Good care begins with feed. Horses are grazing animals, and their diet revolves around forage—grasses and hay. On the Plains, where tallgrass and mixed pasture can vary by season, managing food stores is critical. In winter, you’ll need to rely on hay bales, and in drought years, you may need to supplement with grains like oats or barley.

  • Hay: High-quality grass hay or alfalfa should be the bulk of their diet. Plan for 15–20 pounds per horse per day.
  • Grain: Oats or horse-specific feed for added calories during heavy work.
  • Salt and Minerals: Always provide a salt block or mineral lick to maintain health.
  • Water: Horses require 5–10 gallons daily—be ready with clean troughs or natural sources.

A neglected horse quickly becomes a liability. A healthy, well-fed horse, on the other hand, can plow, pull, or carry you dozens of miles in a day.

Shelter and Care

Horses can withstand the weather extremes of the Great Plains, but they still need basic shelter and routine care. A three-sided shed offers protection from blizzards in winter and shade from the scorching summer sun. Bedding with straw or shavings helps insulate against the cold ground.

Daily checks should include hooves (stones and cracks can lead to lameness), overall condition, and water supply. Farrier visits every 6–8 weeks keep hooves healthy, though preppers should learn basic trimming in case professional help isn’t available. Vaccinations and deworming should be part of the annual routine, but herbal remedies and careful pasture management can serve as backup methods when veterinary care is unavailable.

Remember: the Plains are unforgiving. A horse in poor condition can’t carry loads, and in survival situations, wasted resources can’t be tolerated.

Essential Gear

Having the right gear for your horse is as important as feed and care. Minimalist prepping still requires investment in the following essentials:

  1. Saddle and Bridle: A well-fitted saddle prevents injury to both rider and horse. A simple bridle or even a hackamore is critical for control.
  2. Pack Gear: Saddlebags and panniers allow horses to carry supplies, freeing you up to travel lighter.
  3. Basic Vet Kit: Include bandages, antiseptic, and hoof picks.
  4. Harness and Lines: For pulling carts, logs, or even small plows.

Investing in durable gear upfront will keep you from scrambling during an emergency. Second-hand tack can work, but inspect it closely—broken straps at the wrong moment can be dangerous.

The Role of Horses in Off-Grid Living

While many preppers focus on solar panels and fuel storage, horses provide a time-tested, renewable form of energy. A single horse can plow a garden, haul firewood, or transport a family member to safety when roads are blocked. Unlike vehicles, they can travel across rough prairie, through wooded creek beds, and into areas unreachable by wheels.

Of course, horses are not without drawbacks: they require daily care, land, and time. Not every prepper family can take one on. But for those who can, they represent not just transportation, but independence and continuity with the traditions of the Plains.

Conclusion

Horses aren’t for everyone. They require steady care, feed, and discipline. But for those who commit, they are one of the most resilient tools available for survival and off-grid living. They remind us that the old ways still have a place in modern prepping. If you’re ready to add a horse to your preparedness plan, start small: volunteer at a stable, learn basic care, and talk to those who’ve worked with horses for years. Don’t wait for a crisis to realize that horsepower—real horsepower—still matters.

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