Department of Agriculture Promotes Better Horse Care in Grand Turk

The Department of Agriculture, Animal Division Grand Turk Office, hosted a hands-on, practical workshop on equine nutrition and husbandry on Monday, 26 October 2026, at the Manilik Stable Grounds, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Dr. Amartya C. Hosein demonstrates correct grooming technique using a dandy brush, as horse operators look on. Participants were also introduced to a range of other grooming tools, which were provided to them by the Department, and shown how to use each one correctly. Dr. Hosein also explained body condition scoring, a simple hands-on method owners can use to monitor their horse’s weight and overall health.

The workshop brought together local horse owners and operators for an engaging, interactive learning experience led by Dr Amartya C. Hosein, Veterinary Officer based in Grand Turk. The session combined informative discussions with practical, hands-on demonstrations focused on improving equine nutrition, husbandry practices, and overall animal welfare.

As part of the workshop, participants received essential horse-care equipment, including lead ropes, hoof picks, curry combs, equine grooming brushes, and graduated feed-measuring scoops, providing them with practical tools to support improved daily horse management.

A key highlight of the initiative was the introduction of a customised equine feeding reference chart, developed by Dr Hosein to help horse owners determine appropriate hay/silage and concentrate feed quantities based on their horses' body weights and workload. The chart was specifically adapted for use with the SureScoop® graduated measuring scoops distributed to participants, making daily feeding recommendations easier to understand and implement.

Dr. Amartya C. Hosein observes as a horse operator picks out his horse’s hoof, allowing him to compare each owner’s usual technique with correct practice. Where improvements were needed, Dr. Hosein offered corrective guidance and practical tips to help owners keep their horses’ feet clean and healthy.

“The welfare of animals in the Turks and Caicos Islands is at the forefront of our Ministerial efforts. We have already seen the strides Agriculture is making with the stray dogs throughout the islands. Horses, as we know, are animals that require keen attention and care to sustain their quality of life, so it’s good to see that the essential resources and attention are being concentrated on the upkeep of horses on the island of Grand Turk and the wider Turks and Caicos Islands.”  — Hon. Zhavargo Jolly, Minister of Tourism, Environment, Agriculture, Fisheries, Maritime, Heritage and Gaming.

The Department of Agriculture extends its appreciation to Manilik Stables for facilitating the workshop, and to all horse owners and operators who participated and demonstrated their commitment to improving equine welfare in Grand Turk.