A little fresh air can go a long way ... Ideally, every horse would have a roomy box run and plenty of turnout time, but this is not the case for many. For those stuck in a regular stall most of the day, good ventilation and lighting is very important as well as any fresh air they can get. Left to their own devices in a dark, musty stall, many horses decide to get "creative," through annoying and hard-to-break habits called stable vices, like cribbing or wind-sucking.

Since horses like to observe their surroundings, always keep the top part of the stall door open. They'll appreciate the stimulation of greeting passersby and watching the hustle and bustle of your stable. If your horse does not already have this ability, special screen doors can be purchased with cutouts for the horse's head and neck.

You can't be bored and entertained at the same time. You can find horse toys at your nearest tack shop, like the following.

The above photo is from Cox the Saddler. The small Happy HorseBall is $5.60, and has a 7-inch diameter, while the large costs $22.99 and has a 10-inch diameter. Colors are available as shown.

The above photo is from State Line Tack. The one size they offer costs $16.99. According to their description, "This 10 in. polyethylene ball can be pushed, pulled, even stepped on, and if not bitten or punctured, it will reinflate on its own." Blue, purple, red, or teal.

The above photo is also from State Line Tack. It too comes in only one size for $14.99. According to their description, "Your horse won't be bored if you hand this giant, 10-inch high red plastic apple in the stall to amuse him." Comes in one color, scented.

Summarizing ... All horses require fresh air and good ventilation/lighting in their stall. Make a point to exercise your horse as often as possible. Keeping him active through riding, toys, and socialization will prevent him from thinking too hard about how to entertain himself. If you have any other ideas to add to this page, send them in!

— AE