Setting up the Perfect Stall for Your Horse
Setting up the perfect stall for your horse involves more than just four walls and a roof. A well-designed stall not only gives your horse shelter but also promotes comfort, health, and safety. From stall size and bedding selection to the best feeders and waterers, here's a breakdown of how to set up the perfect stall for your horse!
Size, Style, and Bedding
The first step to setting up the perfect stall is getting the foundation right. Most standard horse stalls are 12x12 feet. This size provides enough room for the horse to move comfortably and get up and down easily. However, larger horses may require bigger stalls. Ensure the stall ceiling is high enough, typically around 8 feet, to prevent injuries if your horse rears.
When it comes to bedding, comfort and cleanliness are essential. Many horse owners choose options like straw, wood shavings, or specialized rubber mats. Shavings and straws are soft and easy to clean, while rubber mats last longer, reduce dust, and support your horse’s joints.
Feeding in the Stall
Feeding your horse in a natural position helps with digestion and reduces the risk of choking. That’s why it's important to choose feeders that allow horses to eat in a way that mimics how they graze in the wild: with their heads close to the ground.
One great option is the Better Bucket by Little Giant. Its angular design is ergonomically shaped to fit the natural structure of a horse’s head, allowing for a more natural eating position. Its tapered sides push feed toward the back of the bucket, making it easier for the horse to access every bite. In addition, the flat back ensures stability when mounted against a wall or fence. Available in multiple colors, this 20-quart feeder is a durable and practical choice for your horse’s perfect stall!
Another great option is the Rubber Stall Feeder. This feeder is made from 100% reinforced rubber, so it won’t crack in cold weather. It’s perfect for farm use and comes in sizes ranging from 8 quarts to 3 gallons, making it versatile for horses of different sizes and feeding needs. This is a great option when designing the perfect stall!
Fresh Water, Always!
Hydration is vital for your horse's health, so keeping fresh water available at all times is essential. A good watering system should need less refilling and keep the water clean and fresh.
The Super Flow Poly Water Bowl for horses is a great automatic waterer option. It hooks up directly to a water source, keeping fresh water available for your horse around the clock. This durable plastic bowl has a 3/4-inch water line and a nylon frost plug for protection. It can handle harsh weather conditions and provides 22 liters of water per minute. This is ideal for horses, ensuring they always have access to fresh water.
For a more traditional option, the Little Giant Plastic Flat Back Bucket is a great addition to your stall setup. This 20-quart bucket is designed to fit securely against a wall or fence. It’s durable, impact-resistant, and protects against warping and stress cracks. It’s available in a variety of colors and is perfect for use as either a water or feed bucket. Its flat back offers stability, while its durable construction ensures it can handle daily use in any barn environment.
Stall Accessories
Besides feeders and waterers, the right accessories can make daily care easier. Add a wall bracket to mount water buckets like the Better Bucket or Little Giant Flat Back Bucket. This keeps them off the ground, reduces spills, and makes cleaning easier. Hooks and racks outside the stall keep halters and grooming supplies organized and easy to grab.
Remember, setting up the perfect stall is all about combining comfort, safety, and convenience. By choosing the right size and style, using high-quality feeders like the Better Bucket, and ensuring constant access to fresh water with the Super Flow Poly Water Bowl or Little Giant Flat Back Bucket, you can create a space where your horse can thrive. Don’t forget the small details like proper bedding and stall accessories to complete your setup and make daily barn chores easier!