Differences in the use of bedding in stables

The indoor feeding season and the approaching winter increase the consumption of bedding, which further emphasizes the importance of bedding for the well-being of horses. The choice and use of bedding varies greatly depending on the type of operation, size of the stable and the number of horses. A stable emphasizes efficiency and hygiene, while a riding school emphasizes comfort and practicality. Yard stables, on the other hand, utilize more natural and self-maintaining solutions, where the use of bedding is optimized for the free movement of horses. When choosing the right bedding, the most important thing is to assess the needs of the stable and choose the bedding that best serves your own facilities and operating methods.

Busy stables

Stables often focus on effective training and performance maintenance and may house a large number of horses. In such stables, bedding usage is optimized to maintain horse welfare and cleanliness while keeping costs under control. Stables often use straw bales or peat. Straw is a cheap and readily available option, but it requires careful manure removal and has limited absorption of urine odor. Peat, on the other hand, absorbs moisture well and keeps ammonia levels low, which is important for the health of the horses' respiratory tract. Since the days in the stables are hectic and the horses spend varying amounts of time in the stall, the bedding must keep the stalls dry and clean throughout the day. In addition, the bedding must be easy to remove, as the stalls are often cleaned when the horses are changed. Cost-effectiveness and quick cleaning are therefore crucial features.

Diverse riding schools

In riding schools, horses spend time in the stalls not only at night, but also between riding lessons and during grooming. The bedding must withstand the passage of both horses and riders, in addition to controlling manure and urine. Hemp bedding is on the rise in riding schools due to its excellent absorbency and dust-free properties. This is important in facilities where several horses share the same air. Good absorbency also reduces the amount of waste bedding and maintains cleanliness in the stable, which is important for the functionality, comfort and safety of the stable. In addition, bedding provides horses with a supportive surface that reduces stress on joints and muscles, especially if they spend more time in the stall.

Organic courtyards

Yards mimic the natural habitats of horses, allowing them to move freely in and out all year round. The use of bedding in yard stalls differs significantly from traditional stable designs. In the stable, thermally insulating bedding is often used, such as straw or peat, but also straw pellets or hemp. Straw provides a comfortable and warm base, while peat moss and hemp bind moisture well and prevent the spread of dampness. In the stable, bedding is usually only added to sleeping areas or shelters. Its amount is regulated according to the number of horses and weather conditions. The advantage of a paddock is that the horses have the freedom to choose when to go indoors and when to stay outdoors. Daily manure removal and bedding replacement are often sufficient to maintain the paddock. However, changing the actual bedding may require additional equipment, such as a tractor.

Differences in indoor garage drainage

The properties of bedding in a yard and an indoor stable differ due to their different purposes and environmental conditions. In a yard, bedding must be durable, thermally insulating and absorbent, as horses are exposed to the weather. Good thermal insulation is particularly important, as it reduces the effect of the cold ground in the horses' resting areas. In indoor stables, bedding should offer comfort, good absorbency, and be easy to clean. Dust-free bedding is important because it affects the horses' respiratory health, and bedding should be easy to clean. Choosing the right bedding depends on the conditions in the stable and the needs of the horses . Different environments require different properties to ensure the best possible well-being of the horses and the functionality of the stable. Check out all of Biohansa's bedding products via this link . Remember to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media to receive information about new products and current topics directly to your email. Also give us feedback on what topics you would like to read about on Biohansa's blog!

News
january 26, 2025
Hevosten aktivointi heinätelineillä
Hevosille on olemassa erilaisia slow feeder -ratkaisuja ja DIY-heinätelineitä, jotka ehkäisevät ahmimista,...
Read full post
News
january 22, 2025
Bedding in comparison
For many stable owners, the choice of bedding is primarily influenced by...
Read full post
News
december 28, 2024
Straw pellets and grit as bedding
Straw pellets have become increasingly popular in recent years, especially as bedding...
Read full post