Page 109 - Barrel Stallion Register 2023

In a more congested world, space restrictions, climate, and/or geography may make it impossible for a horse to
have pasture turnout. Dry lot living can
be just fine and can keep a horse in robust health provided it is accompanied by sound management decisions.
This type of living arrangement poses some basic challenges that can be mitigated with practical strategies.
DUST
Horses in dry locations stir up a lot of dust, particularly when stomping flies during insect season. Running horses at play often appear shrouded in a haze of sand and dirt as their hooves churn bone-dry ground. Dust is not
only aggravating for keeping horses and facilities clean, but it also poses an insult on respiratory health for both horse and human. Dust irritation can lead to nasal discharge, eye irritation, and subsequent changes in nasolacrimal duct (tear duct) drainage. Some horses may develop equine asthma, which contributes as much as 20-50% to poor performance in equine athletes.
Wetting down paddocks, corrals, and stalls as much as possible reduces airway assault by environmental contaminants. If water is not readily available, alternatives such as plant oils hold down dust. Keep in mind that if horses are allowed free use of the oiled area where they can lay down and roll, it can make a mess of their hair coat.
OPTIMIZING CONFINEMENT LIVING FOR HORSES
by Nancy S. Loving, DVM
DEALING WITH MUD AND WET GROUND
Some regions of the country see their fair share of rain and mud. In wet climates, drain standing water away from stalls and runs. Proper barn design uses gutters and drainage lines to divert water away from animal and human traffic. In dry regions, horse owners like to soak horse feet in ‘mud holes’ or water to help the farrier trim hard hooves. However, in one study (Hampson et al), hoof wall moisture remained unchanged following soaking although sole moisture did increase significantly. Horse hooves subjected to periods immersed in mud or standing water are predisposed to thrush, white line disease, skin infection, and subsolar abscesses.
MINIMIZING SAND INGESTION
Horses fed hay on the ground invariably pick up dirt, especially when seeking tiny pieces of alfalfa leaves. Bored horses without access to free choice hay also tend to eat dirt. To minimize sand ingestion, feed hay from large plastic or metal water tanks rather than from hanging feeders where horses pull hay onto the ground as they eat. Another aid is to place rubber mats in the feeding area. Mats can be swept or hosed off prior to feeding to minimize contamination of hay with sand. Tractor tires turned inside out also serve as a useful feeding station to minimize dirt and sand ingestion.
VETERINARY VIEWS
Horses in dry lots can stir up a lot of dust, which can aggravate respiratory health conditions and lead to poor performance in athletes.
Horses in conditions with standing water are predisposed to thrush, white line disease, skin infections and abscesses.
Feeding horses hay on the ground in sandy conditions will lead to ingestion of dirt. Instead, feed from hanging feeders or place rubber mats on the ground to minimize contamination.
Wetting down paddocks, corrals, and stalls as much as possible reduces airway assault by environmental contaminants.
SPEEDHORSE 107