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Stress Less


The following factors help decrease stabling stress:

  • Stall fronts and doors made of steel mesh or grillwork to increase your horse’s visual area.
  • Grillwork or bars between stalls so horses can see and smell each other.
  • Open windows.
  • A second door or window facing outside to allow more visual and sensory stimulation; it also allows more light in the stall.
  • A partial door or stall guard that allows your horse to put his head out of the stall.
  • Adequate lighting.
  • Good ventilation.
  • Level flooring with adequate bedding.



Recommended management practices:

  • Allow your horse to eat forage (hay or pasture) most of the day.
  • Turn your horse out as much as possible.
  • When turning out in groups, make sure horses are compatible so no horse is bullied.
  • Provide an environment with interesting things for your horse to see and do (sensory, motor and cognitive diversity).
  • Develop a training plan that provides proper exercise and gives your horse something he enjoys doing.



Back to Reduce Stable Stress

Cynthia McFarland

Cynthia McFarland is an Ocala, Fla.-based freelance writer, horse owner and avid trail rider. The author of nine books, her latest is The Horseman’s Guide to Tack and Equipment.

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