Beat the Box Rest Blues with Proper Preparation

Sometimes unfortunately box rest can be part and parcel of horse ownership. Whilst we try and protect our beloved horses and ponies wherever possible occasionally acute injuries or an illness can mean that a period of enforced box rest is occasionally necessary. The term box-rest often fills horse owners with dread but with proper preparation is is plausible to make box rest as painless as possible. The key to good box rest care is to provide the best environment possible, meeting our equines needs, and minimising any stress caused by the process. Beat the Box Rest Blues with The Saddlery Shop 1.) Select a bedding which is comfortable and highly absorbent to avoid a build up of ammonia in the stable. Always ensure you muck out your horse at least twice per day to keep his stable clean and fresh. 2.) Provide ample forage, alongside fresh, clean drinking water in order to keep his digestive system functional and mobile. Prevent him from bolting his hay or haylage by supplying it in a small-holed hay net available from The Saddlery Shop in order to slow down the eating process, mirroring the natural trickle feeding pattern of the horse and keeping your horse occupied. Offering stable toys can also be useful and a radio can be a welcome distraction but make sure you give your box resting horse plenty of your attention and groom him regularly with the range of grooming brushes and products available from The Saddlery Shop in order to keep him clean, comfortable and content.