Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
be fitted with a wire-mesh panel if the horse lunges at passing horses or handlers. Other-
wise, it can be fastened in its open position so that the horse can put his head over the lower
door and see other horses and perhaps get some fresh air and sunlight. Sometimes a horse
will develop a habit of leaning on the lower door, which can be damaging to the hinges and
latch.
Sliding doors are convenient and space efficient because when open they fit closely
along the front of the stall wall. Therefore, they are suitable for the aisle side of a stall. It
is important to be sure the sliding door is secured at both ends of the bottom when closed
to keep the bottom of the door from being pushed outward when a horse rolls against it.
Sliding doors are also available with a Dutch door-type feature. A drop panel in the top of
the sliding door will allow the horse to put his head out. Whatever type of door is chosen, it
should be a minimum of 4 feet wide and at least 8 feet tall. Stall doors that allow a horse to
put his head out should have two latches, one at the bottom of the door, out of the horse's
reach.
THE STALL FLOOR
Because a horse can produce up to 50 pounds of manure and 10 gallons of urine daily, a
good deal of thought must be given to the stall flooring and bedding. As you make your
decision, compare the initial cost of installation versus the durability and longevity of each
product. Weigh that along with the margin of safety and comfort for the horse provided by
each type of flooring. And finally, be sure to consider what type of bedding you plan to
use, as some flooring-bedding combinations work well and some can be undesirable. (See
chapter 15 , Sanitation.)
Search WWH ::




Custom Search