The Importance Of Horse Stall Cleaning

By Maryanne Goff


Mucking is just another way of saying horse stall cleaning. It is just one of those things that anyone that owns or that works with horses is very familiar with. When owning a horse, the importance of horse stall cleaning is something that needs to be learned and known because there is more to it than just cleaning.

Anyone who lives or works on a farm or at an equine clinic knows that mucking is all part of the daily activities. They also do not mind it or find it as revolting as most people. When mucking, the manure can be examined for consistency, color, shape and size in order to determine the overall digestive health of the horse.

Animals do not like to reside in filthy conditions just like humans do not like dirt and filth. When an environment is dirty there is more concern about health issues. The ammonia odor from urine and feces can cause breathing problems and standing in this filth can also cause problems with the hooves of the animal.

The main tools needed for the job are a shovel, a pitch fork, a wheel barrow, a stable broom and a shavings fork. Once the tools are assembled the stall will need to be cleared of the animal, feed tubs, water buckets, and any other items such as toys that are present. Once all the items have been cleared the task of removing all the old hay bedding, shavings and manure can begin. It is important to strip stalls at least once a week and disinfect them. This will help keep the bugs away and the foul odors away.

The flooring of the stall is going to determine the amount of bedding needed in order to make the animal comfortable. The season also plays a role in determining the quantity of bedding needed. The bedding should be spread generously enough to make sure the animal is comfortable. Once you have replenished the bedding, all the other items can be replaced and the animal can be returned.

Amazingly, this animals waste is more than just waste. It can be used as fertilizer and can also be used as a heating source. Dung creates a higher heat than most hard woods and it is environmentally friendly. Many would not think of dung being useful but it is.

When replacing bedding in the stall be sure it is enough to make the animal comfortable. The flooring and season are important factors to consider when determining the amount to use. If you strip the stall be sure it is complete dried before replenishing the bedding. Stripping, which is where you disinfect with some sort of cleaner should be performed at least weekly.

Horse stall cleaning is going to make your beloved animal comfortable and generally happier and healthier. You eliminate the pungent odors created by the ammonia in both urine and feces, which can attract all kinds of bugs and cause mold and mildew. As taxing as it may seem, you and your animal with be grateful in the end.




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