Stabling

Stabled horses are most commonly housed in “loose boxes”. It is important that these boxes provide adequate room for your horse or pony to lie down in. The minimum size for a stable is 3.66m x 3.66m (12ft x 12ft) and 3.05m x 3.05m (10ft x 10ft) for ponies. It is important to note that these are minimum figures and should be altered to your horse’s individual requirements depending on their size.

Bedding

Bedding is essential to provide warmth, comfort and protection against cold weather and injury. It should be non-toxic and provide effective drainage to maintain a dry surface and may consist of straw, wood shavings (or mixes), paper or chopped cardboard. Other less favoured alternatives include peat and sawdust, but these are not ideal.

Bedding must be dry and free of dust and mould so ensure you have a good quality supplier.

Stable hygiene

Droppings and wet bedding should be removed at least twice a day. Loose hay and feed should be swept out of the stable and both the stable and yard should be kept clean and tidy.

Fire hazards

All electrical wires and light switches should be out of reach of both horses and rodents and be properly earthed. Piles of used bedding should be stored well away from the stable yard and smoking should not be allowed in the yard area. All fire extinguishers and fire alarms should be checked regularly and fire exits should be kept clear.