Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
PROS
A well-designed individual pen can combine some of the best features of pasture and stall
life. The horse will receive individual rations, privacy for resting and eating, shelter, fresh
air, and the ability to take moderate exercise. Watering pen horses is usually less labor in-
tensive than watering stall horses, as you can use a trough or barrel. He will be convenient
to gather up for riding and can be outfitted with a turnout sheet to keep him clean. Hooves
stay in good condition because of the managed footing.
Many senior horses fare better in spacious pens with regular turnout than they would on
pasture full-time. Senior horses thrive when given a quiet, dark place with soft footing in
which to rest when standing and a comfortable, safe place to lie down and roll. Locating
the feed area, the water, and the loafing area a good distance from each other encourages
movement.
CONS
A group pen can be more convenient from a management standpoint and will provide
horses with social interaction and more room for exercise, but it does have some serious
drawbacks.
Life in a group pen has many of the same challenges of pasture life without the benefit
of the grass. Group pens present feeding problems, fighting, buddy bonding, mane chew-
ing, and injury associated with groups. Fencing for group pens must be especially safe to
protect each individual from “peer pressure,” which is amplified in confinement.
Exercise. A pen horse's need for exercise can be easily overlooked since the horse is able
to move around a little bit. Depending on the size of the pen, the horse will need turnout
in a larger space and/or a certain number of formal exercise sessions per week to keep him
content, fit, and healthy.
Fighting. Horses fight and play across pen fences, which can be hard on the facilities
and the horses.
Search WWH ::




Custom Search