Rubber Matting

Rubber stable matting for horses

In a previous post, we talked about different types of bedding for horses during the winter season. 

One particularly popular type of material being used in stables worldwide is Rubber Matting.

In terms of conventional types of horse bedding, Rubber matting is a fairly new development providing a warmer, softer and more comfortable stable floor for your horse than concrete, brick, dirt, or wood flooring. 

Rubber matting also greatly reduces the amount of bedding required. A downside is horses don't like to lie down on the bare mats. They prefer the comfort of a bedded area. So even though mats cut down on the amount of bedding needed, be kind to your horse and provide him with enough soft bedding to make him feel comfortable enough to lie down!

For more information on equestrian supplies and bedding, please visit us at Tic Tac Equestrian

Stable Management

Keep your yard in order with proper Stable Management 

If you're lucky enough to have a beautiful four-legged addition to your family this Christmas, we have decided to give you a few tips to help you with your horses and stable management!

Stabling
Loose boxes are the most common form of stabling. Each horse must have room to lie down, stand up and be able to turn in comfort. The recommended minimum box size for horses is 3.66m x 3.66m (12ft x 12ft) and 3.05m x 3.05m (10ft x 10ft) for ponies. These are minimums and must take into consideration the size of the horse or pony.

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 bed, and should consist of straw, wood shavings (or mixes), paper or chopped cardboard. Other less favoured alternatives include peat and sawdust, but these options 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.