January has been a month of cold and damp weather and we will all be happy to see the better weather appear as the days are getting longer. 

The storms and cold weather have meant that many of our horses are in the stables for longer. If our stables are not damp proofed or have increased ammonia or faeces it can provide the perfect environment for fungi and bacteria to grow. If stables are well ventilated, disinfected regularly, painted with anti- bacterial/fungal paints the survival rate of pathogens is greatly diminished.

Do you know what nasties can be found if not regularly cleaned?

Aspergillus

The fungus is associated with dampness and poor hygiene. Like all fungus it survives by forming spores and survive indefinitely under certain conditions. This can cause respiratory issues and lung inflammation. 

Cladosprium

Like Aspergillus it’s a spore forming fungi which causes respiratory problems. The spores contaminate via ingestion or the air.

Rhodococcus equi

This thrives in dusty environments and if your horses are spending more time in the stables, they can be susceptible to this. Again, this can affect the respiratory system but can more severe for foals. 

Other factors to consider

Have you considered your bedding? 

Poor quality bedding or flooring can have an impact on the dust and fungi that can be found in your stables. Dust in the stables can not only lead to infections, coughs etc but can also enable spores and fungi to remain in the environment. Shavings can be a good option if viable as has minimal dust particles. 

Do you have matting that allows for the urine to run out of the stable? Ammonia remaining in the stable can cause respiratory issues and can cause hoof infections. 

As our horses are in the stable environment for longer, they are more at risk to some of these infections. It is vital that the stables and barn has a good ventilation system which allows the stale air to be removed and the clean air to be circulated. 

Entertainment

Have you ever considered that your horse can become bored during extended periods in the stable? This is when stable vices can arise such as cribbing and weaving and other stress related habits.

There are many stable toys on the market these days such as a lickits, treat balls or mobile toys. Alternatively there are many homemade options available, like hanging a variety of fruit and vegetables from the front of the stable that can keep your horses entertained and make them work for their treats!

Mirrors can also be a great addition to any stable, horses are herd animals and if they are having to be isolated a mirror can be a good option.