And update on this is I probably use about half the amount of bales when using the rape straw, It stays drier, doesn't get mixed in as much and his bed is staying bigger.
For me it is a million times better than the chopped straw, and I will consider using it next winter. The only downside is...
I agree, he doesnt look bad in your photo, but he is hairy which can hide condition and not anazingly muscled. My TB is vile if he gets hungry, and gets really sharp. It could be that your grass is running low. I would be tempted to put a bit of hay out and see if he improves
The actual poultice looks clean, although hard to tell there could be a darker area where I've circles. Or it could be shadows, or general dirt. Id be tempted to tub the foot and keep wrapped in clean dry dressings for a bit longer, to make sure it has 100% stopped draining it cant do any harm...
Its difficult to tell but i had one who drained minuscule amounts like this for a couple of weeks after the abscess burst. I think most people thought it was just wet poultice/gunk. But I am convinced it was fluid draining of some sort mine was mostly clear yellow plasma like fluid.
I kept the...
I love shavings, dont go for large flake, and a big bed deep stays cleaner than a small bed.
My boy can be dirty but is pretty clean on shavings. I have tried chopped straw, chopped rape, wood pellets and micanthus with various degrees of success. But shavings suit him the best
Honestly. They have company, food, dry standing and space to mooch. Its not 100% but it definitely not awful. I would bet you feel worse than they do. Mine has been in a turn out pen full time since December. Its not ideal but the fields are clay and badly draining. Try not to worry too much...
I've got a few bales of rape straw to see how I get on before committing to a pallet - I might just buy some lavender essential oil and a spray bottle 😂