Horse stables should be properly maintained for the health and well being of the horses.
A stable is needed for horses since they require bigger spaces as they are big animals. Several factors that affect the horse stable include its structure, design, bedding, and stall sizes, flooring, lighting, feeding and watering equipment.
The first tip is that stables can either be bought/acquired or leased. Ideally it should be safe, clean and impeccable. Fences should be reliable and sturdy enough to avoid accidents. Fly repellents can also be used so stables are free of bugs. Some of those available in the market are disposable and compact.
Second tip is, structurally it is important to build a structure that faces the wind. Horses should be protected from sun, wind and rain elements. Third tip is that bedding must be properly supplied with warm and comfortable materials like hemp and rubber mat with straw top. It is important to regularly clean the stable.
Stalls include loosebox, tie or standing stalls. Fourth tip is, ideally the recommended size of loose boxes is 10 X10 (3mX3m) to 12 X12 (3.6mX3.6m) for an average size riding horse. On the other hand, tie or standing stalls must be at the bare minimum 4ft to 5ft (1.5m) wide and 8ft (3.6m) long. Fifth is that stall doors can be swinging or sliding type with at least 4 ft (1.2m) wide. Sixth is that in between stalls, alleyways should be no less than 10ft wide (3m).
Seventh is that flooring must be concrete with a roughened non slip surface for easier maintenance of the place. Though to make flooring more comfortable, it is advisable to use rubber made stall mats or sandy soil. Drainage problems can be fixed during springtime and it is also the best time to check on fences, fields and paddocks. Eighth is that ceilings should be designed high enough so horses won’t hit their heads even if they raise their head.
Ninth is that in terms of lighting, bulbs should have safety cages while wiring must be rodent free and moisture proof. Switches should be out of reach of the horses. Windows should be able to provide proper ventilation and must be covered with mesh or grills.
Tenth is that when feeding and watering, the most efficient way is to place a pail on the wall. One can also use wall supported feeding tubs and build up piles of hay for the horse to feed on.
Any modern stable deserves to have tack trunks where you can place brushes, hoof picks, shredding blades etc. In some ways it adds to the aesthetic appearance of the stable because it organizes horse accessories.
It is important to create an environment free of clutter to avoid accidents and ensure the availability of riding helmets and riding boots. One must keep in mind that when horses are stabled, it means they are like prisoners who are dependent on the caretaker’s actions. It is very important to be reminded of the basic needs like food, water, space, freedom to move, company, and shelter so that stable management of the horses will be a success.
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