From field to stable

xRobyn

xRobyn

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How have yours coped? Phil is out 24/7. he was stabled as a colt but lied out between the age of 2-8. When he was 8 he was stabled 24/7 for about 2/3 months due to suspected laminitis and hated it. He box walked, ruined his bed, knocked over water and would paw the ground when tied up (considering he's normally pretty much a dope on a rope).

This was very sudden with no turnout and no company so of course I would expect him to be stressed and dislike it but I am very much a "keep them out as long as possible" type of person.

I have two potential loaners. One has 24/7 turnout in a mixed herd, an indoor school and decent hacking but possibly no opportunities (young girl don't think she has transport). The other has limited turnout (stabled overnight all year) but is a very competent rider (was happy to get on Phil bareback in 8 acres with other horses) and is open to many more opportunities.

Phil is also a good do-er so stabling would potentially reduce the amount of weight he gains etc.

How did yours cope? He will be moving to a yard where all horses are bought in and they are in small stable blocks of 8 horses so will have plenty of company.
 
I think you have do what is going to suit the horse. If being turned out 24/7 is what keeps him happy and sane, thats what I would do.
However if you are loaning him out to further his education, then maybe you can start stabling him yourself, and gradually build up the time he spends inside.
Toys, lots of hay and company next door will all help to aleviate any stress.
I do think option 1 is a better choice though. Perhaps the lass will be able to get transport at a later date.
 
No-one's had a field horse that needed to be stabled?

Joeanne he's going on a month's trial to see how he copes being stabled. Thing is, it will help his weight tremendously.
 
I had trouble stabling my 4yr old! He would rear over the door and have huge tantrums. Prior to coming to me he had been stabled for the first two winters of his life then lived out 24/7 for the last two.

I have been bringing him in a few hours a day and its working, he is now happy to stand in the stable for a few hours and has spent a night in (thought he had colic!).

It can be done and since the weather is changing he might be glad of the rest for the elements. x
 
Thank you FS. I'm sure he will be fine I've just always been a turnout 24/7 type of person :o

When he was stabled he didn't do anything that bad. He would box walk a little and call but that was it. He didn't become dangerous or aggressive and would still have daily turnout and riding etc. Fingers crossed he doesn't mind too much!
 
Once he settles in to the routine he will be fine, winter is the best time to get them used to being in IMO, I have never met a horse who doesn't like a huge net and a cozy bed :D

I hope the loan works out and your lad has fun xx
 
Thank you :D

Like you say I'm sure he will enjoy it! And once he realises everyone comes in then I'm sure he will be fine :)
 
Mine used to be at a competition yard and now dislikes being stabled for a long time. He now lives out 24/7. However, as said above I am sure they would get used to it. Mine initially refused to go into the box, kept bolting out and weaving. He now stays in happily for short times, ie 4 hours or so :)
 
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