24/04/2025
A Paddock Is Not Turnout
This one really gets to me.
“I give my horse turnout every day,” they say—then show me a paddock about the same size as the stall.
I get it. Space can be limited. I live in one of those areas too. That’s exactly why I tracked my own small rental property—to create real turnout.
But here’s the hard truth: a paddock does not meet the physical or psychological needs of a 1,000+ lb prey animal. So how did this become normal?
Most people would never dream of keeping a dog in a kennel for 22–23 hours a day. Yet somehow, it’s acceptable for a horse?
So what can you do if you can’t change your horse’s boarding situation?
First: acknowledge that your horse’s needs aren’t being met. And that means adjusting your expectations. You can’t blame them for expressing discomfort, frustration, or unwanted behaviours in this environment.
Instead, focus on doing what is possible.
That might mean committing to getting your horse out every day—not to lunge them or chase them around a pen, but simply to allow them to move. Freely. Naturally. Like a normal animal going for a walk.
If true turnout or pasture time is available—great. If not, get creative. Every bit of movement matters.
Ensure they have access to 24/7 forage. Use small-hole hay nets if you’re managing weight, but don’t let them go hours without food. Long gaps between feedings create stress, and stress leads to dysfunction.
Offer enrichment. Provide novelty. Give them something to interact with—something that mimics natural exploration and problem-solving.
And if you can modify the paddock, even just a little? Do it. Move the water to the opposite side. Add visual barriers or structures to encourage more movement. Small changes add up.
But if none of this is possible—if the environment truly can’t meet your horse’s basic needs—then it’s time to re-evaluate. It may be inconvenient to move. But their welfare has to come first.
And finally: please don’t get another horse if you can’t meet these fundamental needs. This isn’t just about ownership, it is about ethical stewardship of a sentient being.
Yes, even if they’re a show horse.
