07/12/2024
🐴The Veterinary and Remount Department 💪
A Key Unit Behind the care and readiness of the horses in the Royal Horse Guard Parade of the Royal Guards and Taking the Oath of Allegiance Ceremony
The rhythmic sound of hooves striking the ground, the flowing mane swaying gracefully with every trot, and the gleaming coat shimmering in the sunlight—all these elements, combined with the full-dress uniforms of the cavalry in the Royal Horse Guard formation, exude a sense of elegance and strength that captivates all who witness it.
In every parade, horses are not only symbols of grace and beauty but also the central figures reflecting the preparedness, unity, and dedication of the military. This is why preparing the horses for ceremonial duties is a crucial process requiring knowledge, meticulous care, and expertise to ensure every horse performs its role flawlessly.
This perfection, however, would not be possible without those who ensure the readiness and well-being of every horses used in the ceremonies. In this post, we introduce the unit that works tirelessly behind the scenes to maintain the health and fitness of these horses for parades.
👩⚕️The Veterinary and Remount Department’s Role 🧑⚕️
The Veterinary and Remount Department is part of the Royal Thai Army Service Corps, responsible for providing animal-related equipment and supplies, formulating doctrines, and developing training manuals on military animal operations. It supports military operations by utilizing animals and plays a critical role in events where the Army employs animals, such as parades and other ceremonial duties. The department oversees every aspect, from preparation to ex*****on, including the readiness of horses for parades—a process we’ll delve into below.
🙌 Preparing Horses for the Parade 🐴
The first step in preparing the horses is grooming, which involves cleaning and maintaining their coats and bodies to ensure they are both healthy and presentable. Grooming not only enhances their appearance but also promotes relaxation and well-being.
1. Initial Grooming:
Horses are brought out and cleaned with rubber or metal curry combs to remove dirt, dust, and grass trapped under their coats. A brush is then used to sweep away any remaining debris until their coats are clean.
2. Bathing:
The horses are showered with water, followed by the application of shampoo. Brushes are used to scrub away sweat, grime, and dust. After rinsing thoroughly, they are dried with towels, starting from the head and neck and working downward to the body, legs, and hooves. Any injuries are checked and treated as needed.
3. Final Touches:
Once dry, the horses are groomed further, and their tack (harness and equipment) is fitted. Grooming is performed twice—once before the parade and again after the horses are used.
Health Care During the Parade
During the parade, horses face challenges such as loose horseshoes, heatstroke, or injuries. To address these, the Veterinary and Remount Department deploys mobile care units alongside the procession, both during rehearsals and the actual event. These units monitor all horses, including those used by the Royal family.
• Common Issues:
• Loose or ill-fitted horseshoes: Fixed on-site by personnel.
• Heatstroke: Affected horses are separated, taken to shade, and treated until recovery.
• Injuries (e.g., bites, kicks): Minor wounds are treated immediately, while severe injuries may require refer to the “Royal Stable Unit Equine Medical and Rehabilitation Service Centre” a fully equipped facility for advanced care.
Emergency Response Teams
Medical care for the horses is divided into four teams:
1. Mobile Operations Units: Provide first aid and stabilize injured horses on-site.
2. Primary Field Hospitals: Handle emergencies until horses can be transported.
3. Secondary Field Hospitals: Offer continued treatment.
4. Base Hospitals: Provide specialized care for severe cases.
Each step in the preparation process requires highly skilled personnel to ensure the horses are ready for their missions. These horses are more than ceremonial participants—they are companions and symbols of swiftness, strength, independence, courage, and camaraderie. Since ancient times, they have been steadfast allies in the Army’s endeavors, representing the enduring bond between humans and animals in service to the nation.
With the meticulous care and attention provided by the Veterinary and Remount Department, these horses continue to perform their duties with elegance and remain a vital part of the Thai Army’s success in every mission.
