Environment

Make sure your horse has a suitable place to live

Please note that the term ‘horse’ is used on this page, but the information applies to both horses and ponies.
 

Facts

• Horses are adapted to living in wide-open spaces where they can easily detect danger and escape if frightened or attacked. They have a natural fear of confined spaces and do not like feeling trapped.
   
• Horses are athletic animals moving continuously whilst looking for and eating grass. They need large amounts of exercise to remain healthy.
   
• A horse can become ill or show abnormal behaviour if it is confined to a stable for long periods of time.
   
• A stabled horse is more likely to be exposed to germs, toxic dust and fumes than horses kept at pasture.
   
• Living in cold, wet or muddy conditions without good shelter or dry areas to stand or rest upon can lead to discomfort or illness.
   
• Transport can be stressful for horses and can cause illness, particularly when transported under poor conditions and for long durations.
   

Things you should do

• Make sure that where your horse lives is secure and free from hazards, this includes ensuring fences are in good condition and escape-proof.
   
• All horses should have access to a paddock where they can exercise every day, in the company of other horses, for as long as possible.
   
• When out in a paddock, horses must have access to shelter from extremes of weather and temperature and have dry areas to stand and lie down on.
   
• If your horse is stabled, ensure all areas of your horse’s environment are well ventilated, clean and draught-free.
   
• Stabled horses need good quality, dust-free bedding to lie upon. Ensure bedding is kept clean.
   
• Have a plan to deal with emergencies such as fire in buildings and flooding of land or buildings.
   
• When you transport your horse, make sure it is comfortable and safe at all times.
   
• Ensure the size and temperature of any place you leave your horse (including a trailer or horsebox) is appropriate.