Beginner’s Guide: Stabling and Turnout

Creating a Safe and Comfortable Environment for Your Horse

Providing a safe and comfortable living environment is crucial for the wellbeing of your horse. In this chapter, we’ll discuss stabling and turnout, and how to create an environment that your horse will thrive in.

Stabling

Stabling is an important aspect of horse care, particularly during bad weather or for horses that require additional care. Here are some key points to consider when stabling your horse:

Size: Your horse should have enough room to move around and lay down comfortably. The minimum size for a stable is around 3.5m x 3.5m.

Ventilation: Good ventilation is important to prevent respiratory issues. Make sure your stable has windows or vents that allow fresh air to circulate.

Lighting: Your stable should have adequate lighting to allow you to see your horse clearly, particularly during the darker months.

Bedding: Use a suitable bedding material, such as shavings or straw, to provide a soft and comfortable surface for your horse to stand on.

Cleanliness: Keeping your stable clean and tidy is important to prevent the buildup of ammonia and other harmful substances.

Turnout

Turnout is essential for your horse’s physical and mental wellbeing. Horses need to move around and socialize with other horses to stay healthy and happy. Here are some key points to consider when turning out your horse:

Size: The size of your turnout area will depend on the number of horses you have and the amount of space you have available. Ideally, your horse should have at least an acre of land to graze on.

Fencing: Ensure your fencing is secure and safe to prevent your horse from escaping or injuring themselves. Regularly check for any broken or damaged fencing.

Shelter: Provide your horse with a shelter, such as a field shelter or trees, to protect them from the sun, rain and wind.

Water: Always ensure your horse has access to fresh, clean water at all times.

Supervision: Always supervise your horse when they are turned out to ensure their safety and wellbeing.

Stabling and turnout are essential aspects of horse care, and it’s important to create a safe and comfortable environment for your horse. By providing adequate space, ventilation, lighting, bedding, and cleanliness, your horse will feel comfortable and happy in their stable. Similarly, a safe and secure turnout area with appropriate shelter, fencing, water, and supervision will enable your horse to move around and socialize with other horses, which is crucial for their physical and mental wellbeing.