Chapter 6. Safety In the Pasture
Safety In the Pasture
Follow these horse pasture safety tips
Pastures Should Not Contain Poisonous Plants
Bracken fern, Hemlock, Tansy ragwort, Johnsongrass/Sudan grass, Locoweed, Oleander, Red maple trees, Water hemlock, Yellow star thistle/Russian knapweed, and Yew are all poisonous to horses and should be kept away from pastures.
Fencing Should Be Secure
All fencing should be secure enough to keep horses in the pastures. Fencing should be 4 to 6 feet height to discourage jumping out, and free of protrusions to reduce the risk of injury.
Gates Should Be Safe
Gates should be at least 4 feet wide so a horse being led by a human can fit through easily. There should be a secure latch so horses cannot escape. The gate should swing freely when opened and free of sharp points.
Pastures Should Be Free of Debris
Discarded objects, building supplies, and fallen trees left in pastures can lead to injury.