The Paddocks

Horses are kept in a variety of areas and environments.

Having observed and experienced several livery yards and private yards we took in to consideration all of the pros and cons before deciding to develop our own.

I studied an online Horse Psychology course which taught me about the 5 freedoms which not only applies to horses but all animals on farms and smallholding livestock.

The 5 Freedoms are:

1. Freedom from Hunger and Thirst: by ready access to fresh water and a diet to maintain full health and vigor.
2. Freedom from Discomfort: by providing an appropriate environment, including shelter and a comfortable resting area.
3. Freedom from Pain, Injury or Disease: by prevention or rapid diagnosis and treatment.
4. Freedom to Express Normal Behavior: by providing sufficient space, proper facilities and company of the animal’s own kind.
5. Freedom from Fear and Distress: by ensuring conditions and treatment which avoid mental suffering.

Heres how we address all 5 with our own kind of Horsie Code of Conduct:

1. We ensure adequate access to grass and forage, supplemented with feed if needed and clean fresh water and check them at least twice a day to ensure they never run low.
2. All our horses are kept comfortable with shelter from the sun, shelter from bad weather (we stable them if particularly stormy) types of rugs if they need them by checking the weather and fly masks and even sun cream if needed in the summer.
3. I am trained in equine first aid and always check my horses daily for any sign of injury or disease and ensure regular dental, farrier and vet visits are planned when necessary.
4. Horses are naturally outdoor animals so we turn our horses out of the stable most of the year round whatever the weather, they have space to play, we exercise them all regularly and we keep them in pairs or all together where possible.
5. As above keeping horses happy, being stabled for days on end or in a stable that is too small will affect them mentally so we have stables at least 10×10 for 12 hand and under and 12×12 for 12 hand plus (Harley is 12 hands and in a 12×12 now ).