We’ve all heard the saying, “idle hands are the devil’s workshop.” Well this holds true to your poor horse who has been prescribed stall rest for the next few weeks. Although it is needed, it can cause your horse to become restless, unhappy, destructive, and even a little dangerous. If you were locked in a 10x10 room all day every day, you would be too.
Here are some ways to help your horse through his stall rest:
- Natural lighting and fresh air – This is great for your horse. The sunshine and fresh air can help to increase your horse’s mood. If you do not have a stall in your barn that has a window, leave the barn doors open, or even put up a portable pen outside that is the size of a stall.
- Company – Give your horse some company. Leave another horse in the barn for him to be around. If this isn’t an option, chickens and goats can make great companions and can also be left in the stall with your horse. Allow family and friends to come out and groom your horse whenever they feel the urge. He will appreciate the attention!
- Keep the bugs out – Bugs love barns. Flies can especially bug your horse. Use a fan, fly sheet, and repellants to minimize the annoyance of bugs.
- Get him out – If the vet advises you to hand walk your horse, make sure you do so! Your horse will love getting out of that stall. Even allow him to be hand grazed.
- Watch his diet – Keep in mind, your horse is not burning near as many calories as he was when he was being ridden and out to pasture. Adjust your horse’s diet to meet his current needs.
Stall rest can be a pain for everyone. Try to keep your horse’s stall rest experience as positive as possible. Trust us, he will appreciate it and it will make it go by faster for everyone!
For more information on stall rest, click
here.
