Boredom busting

Enrichment not only helps to keep your pony occupied, it also encourages natural behaviour, improves physical health and reduces stress and anxiety. So, find out how you can get creative with our enrichment guide!

Stable savvy

Spending more time in the stable – maybe because he’s on box rest or the paddocks are too wet – can cause ponies to become bored or frustrated due to limited exercise and interactions with other ponies. But, with a few quick-and-easy adjustments you can turn your fave pony’s stable into a fun and engaging space, helping to mimic his natural field behaviour!

1. Friends forever

Socialisation is an essential part of ponies’ natural behaviour, and lack of physical interaction can cause stress. Ensuring your pony can see others at all times when he’s stabled will reduce feelings of isolation.

2. The perfect reflection

A shatterproof mirror specially designed for ponies is a great way to give the illusion of a friend next door. Plus, most ponies are fascinated by their reflection! Just be sure it’s safe and securely fitted.

3. Foraging fun

Ponies naturally graze for up to 18 hours a day and roam up to 20 miles in that time. So, being stabled makes a big difference to movement, foraging and browsing opportunities.

So, why not place hay in different areas of his stable, and use different feeding techniques (for example, a hay net and a slow feeder)? This will recreate your pony’s natural foraging behaviour, increase movement, slow down eating and boost entertainment value – ideal!

4. Pony buffet

In the wild, ponies don’t just eat grass, they browse on a variety of hedgerows, plants and shrubs! Copying this natural behaviour in your pony’s stable will provide variety in his diet, stimulate his senses and keep him occupied for longer.

Why not try gathering a variety of plants for him to pick through? Pony-safe snacks include…

• cow parsley
• cleavers
• hawthorn
• hazel
• blackberry
• rosehip
• thistle
• nettle
• dandelion
• willow
• peppermint
• rosemary
• thyme

Check out more ways to enrich your pony’s environment in October PONY – pick up your copy today!