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.

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.