Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
VETERINARIAN WORK AREA
A veterinarian, like a farrier, needs to get his or her truck close to the work space in the
barn. Many veterinary procedures require water, so convenient access to hot and cold wa-
ter is a big plus. Plan a counter or worktable near the vet area for setting down tools and
keeping supplies at hand without having to put them on the floor. The floor in the vet area
should be solid, have good traction, and be sloped to drain water away from the work area
so the vet doesn't have to stand in water. Good lighting is especially important for vet work.
Besides ample permanent lights, portable clamp lights or light stands should be available to
spotlight certain areas on the horse. Plenty of outlets installed in convenient locations will
make it easier for the vet to use clippers, an ultrasound machine, and other equipment.
WASH RACK
If you have space to include an indoor wash rack, you'll find that bathing and other horse
care will go more smoothly. Wash rack flooring needs to be solid and have good traction.
The floor should slope toward a drain so you won't be standing in water as you bathe
your horse. Make the walls waterproof so the wall framing doesn't rot. Place light fix-
tures so light comes from the sides, not centered overhead, and choose fixtures, outlets, and
switches that are weatherproof. Outfit the wash rack with hot and cold water and an over-
head infrared heater so you can safely bathe your horse during cool weather. Locate the
wash rack where it is protected from breezes so a wet horse doesn't get chilled. Because
some horses can move quickly and knock into things when startled by water spray, there
should be no protrusions such as water faucets that could injure a horse or be damaged by
a horse. If there is no room inside the barn, a wash rack can be located outdoors, but it will
be limited to use during warm weather only.
