Tips to Navigating Stable Rest 

Tips to Navigating Stable Rest 

There may come a time for any horse owner when their trusty steed may need some box rest or confinement. It might be for any number of reasons, most likely some form of injury or recovery from a surgery of some description.  

This time doesn’t have to be stressful for you and your horse. Whilst it isn’t natural for a horse to be confined for long periods of time sometimes it is necessary. There are some things you can do to make sure they get through this period of rest and come out happy and healthy afterwards. 

Hay – Make sure your horse has a constant supply of hay. This will not only help to keep them healthy and help avoid problems such as colic, ulcers and low roughage intake, it will also help to keep them busy, much like when they are constantly grazing in their paddock. Hay can be provided in a slow feeder net to also increase the time in which they are occupied!  

Hand walking – If allowed, you should always check with your vet first. Walking helps keep them mentally happy and also provides some much-needed exercise. This will help slow any muscle loss they may get from being confined. Just be aware your horse may be a bit more fresh than normal so only walk your horse if it is safe to do so. Using a bridle or a rearing bit may provide you with some greater control if necessary.  

Grooming – Giving your horse a good brush and spending quality time with them will help keep them occupied. Plus given they probably can’t roll as comfortably as they can in the paddock, it helps to remove old hair and dust from their coat. 

Toys – Many people will place a toy of sorts in with their horse, such as a large ball or tie some water bottles in the stable to give them something to play with. This helps keep them entertained. Just make sure it is safe for them so as not to cause any injury or can’t be destroyed in five minutes.  

Companion – Having a companion whilst stabled is a good idea. If you have the facilities to keep another horse in a nearby stable or close by, this may help navigating feelings of isolation, after all horses are herd animals. Sometimes, and if your horse is agreeable, even another animal, such as a goat, can provide companionship for your horse.  

Diet – It may also be necessary to adjust your horse’s diet whilst confined. They won’t require as much energy during this time, but their roughage requirements will increase. Balancing a diet that also is suitable for maintaining their condition whilst workload is reduced can be tricky. If you aren’t sure how to navigate the challenges, you can always seek advice from your veterinarian or a nutritionist 

Stable rest doesn’t have to be stressful; though unnatural, there are many ways to make it go quickly and easily. It may take a bit of effort but to find a silver lining in what might be a difficult time, we can look to it as an extra bonding experience for you and your horse!