Keep ’em happy

If your pony is injured or ill, sometimes your vet will advise that he stays on box rest while he recovers. While it’s necessary to help him heal, box rest isn’t a lot of fun for anyone – imagine being stuck in your bedroom for days on end! You’d start to feel bored and restless and that’s exactly how your pony will feel, too. After all, ponies are herd animals and love to roam around with their friends! 

If your pony does need to stay in, though, don’t fret. We have some great suggestions that will help to lift his spirits during his time indoors!

On the hunt

Ponies are designed to graze while on the move. Being active helps them burn calories and keep mobile. Just because your pony’s restricted on space, doesn’t mean he can’t move a little! Why not put his hay in several piles or nets around his stable to encourage him? 

Sweet treat

Salt licks are a great way to keep your pony occupied. And can be a super source of vitamins and minerals, too!

Work for it

When giving your pony his hay, you could use a haynet with tiny holes or double net his ration instead. This means he’ll have to work harder to get the hay out and it’ll last him much longer.

Did you know? 

Stables with bars between them can be really beneficial for ponies on box rest because they have the chance to interact with their neighbours!

Let me entertain you

Treat balls and pony-safe toys are an excellent form of entertainment for your fave four-legged friend. You can get loads of different types that will stimulate his mind and body! 

Top tip

Make sure you speak to your vet to find out if it’s OK for your pony to have access to a treat ball or toy on box rest. 

Mirror mirror on the wall

It might seem crazy, but putting a mirror in your pony’s stable can help prevent boredom. Not only can he stand and admire his handsome self for ages but some ponies, who aren’t familiar with mirrors, believe it’s another pony – how funny is that!

Top tip

Make sure your pony is checked regularly throughout the day while on box rest. He might require a water or hay top up, as well as a quick skip out to help keep his bed and hooves clean.  

Friendly face

Ponies love being surrounded by other equines, so check your pony has company nearby when he’s on box rest. You might need to speak to your yard manager and ask if you can move him if he doesn’t have a pal close by, otherwise he could become stressed and unhappy. 

Visiting hours

Although ponies love seeing their friends, having a visit from you is important, too! Spend as much time as you can with your pony – you could groom him, take him for a hand graze (if your vet says that’s OK) or even read him your PONY magazine! He’ll absolutely love the company!