Using rubber mats in turn out paddock help!

[griffin2727]

I have a lamanitic horse due to be released from box rest shortly. The only available grass area, is highly fertilised cattle fattening grass (rich in sugars). We are therefore trying to create a turnout area on top of this grass. We rent out property and cannot make permanent changes. We are thinking of putting down thick interlocking rubber stable mats to create a 'safe area'. Does anyone have any experience of doing this? Any advice? Many thanks everyone!

 

[juliette]

My experience may or may not be useful!

I have a mobile field shelter which I had rubber mats in during the winter with a shaving bed on top. As the weather deteriorated and the ground got wet the mats moved a lot, the ground underneath went from flat to undulating making it a nightmare to muck out and a tripping hazard! Spent a lot of time lifting the mats and trying to level the ground. Not fun as they are so heavy and smelly!

We are on clay soil which didn't help. Have you considered putting down sand with a membrane underneath that could (?) be more effective.....

Whatever you try I hope it works! Be interested to know.