Fields Nominations Results

Horse Facilities

Are my facilities suitable for horses? How will this be assessed?

Horses have access to shelter from sun, rain, wind, and adverse weather condition.

When ambient temperatures are extreme, horses are monitored more frequently than usual, animal behaviour is observed, and corrective action taken if needed. Clipped horses are protected from the cold by stabling or wearing rugs. Horses have no skin lesions due to rubbing of the rugs or covers.

Sharp objects, protrusions, edges, gaps and damaged flooring likely to cause injury to have been removed, repaired or covered.

All stable and barn doorways are wide enough for a horse and handler to move through easily. Floor surfaces are not slippery.

Grain based feeds, health remedies, toxic materials and associated equipment are securely stored and unable to be accessed by horses. No toxic paint or timber preservatives are used.

Personnel take action to rectify any problems, or potential problems, with facilities that are apparent upon inspection of horses within the facilities. Handlers are trained and familiar with the operation of facilities and understand how incorrect operation may affect the horses in their care.

For stabled horses they should have enough room to lie down and rest; turn around comfortably; and roll without becoming cast. They need sufficient bedding to prevent injury and allow a comfortable rest. Water containers must not cause injury. Appropriate fire prevention measures and an emergency plan should be devised and documented, and personnel trained to implement it. Damp straw or hay used as bedding should not be stored in or near stables as it is a common cause of fires. Smoking in stable areas should be prohibited due to the risk of fire. Contingency plans are in place for dealing with any hazards or emergencies and include the ability to rapidly release horses into a safe and secure environment.

Stalls must provide sufficient space for a horse to be led in and turned around, to reduce possible injury associated with moving horses backward into position. Horses may be tied in a stall, but for no more than 6 hours in a 24-hour period, unless under veterinary recommendation, and while untied must receive daily exercise.

 

Industry Information