We hope everyone is enjoying a new, cooler season! I'm not sure we are ready, as I'm always freezing, but who doesn't like crisp air! We wanted to remind you about safety as we move into blanket season! We also want to go through some reminders about safe usage while using Hay Chix hay nets, as we truly care about what is best for you and your herds. We also know we can never prevent every accident, but knowing we give our animals the best shot at making good choices is key to a sound piece of mind. So, here's a list of safety tips to go over and incorporate into your program!
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Check out that smile!
Check your horse's mouth, teeth, and lips regularly to make sure you see no signs of injury or abnormalities that may arise. Over the years, we have had people call and state their horse has sores in its mouth or lips, only to find there is foxtail in their hay or summer sores caused by flies on their lips. Make sure to incorporate this quick check-over while grooming or caring for your horse. Does your horse have a dental issue that needs to be addressed? Using Hay Chix hay nets will typically help most horses consume hay at better rates and is also very helpful with feeding geriatric horses that quid their hay. However, it is important to look at your horse's incisors for any abnormalities that may impinge proper usage of the hay net. Have questions? Reach out to your vet or equine dentist for feedback, or give us a call, as we are always here to help. Also, here is a link to one of our dental studies done by the University of Wisconsin–River Falls. Click here to read the study!
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Got Shoes?
If your horse wears shoes, you MUST use a hay ring around our large bale hay nets to prevent the horse from pawing at the net. If you use our small bale, half bale, quarter bale nets, or Free Up Feeders, you must hang your hay net feeder high enough that your horse cannot paw at the net and catch a shoe. While each horse's height is different, a common height to shoot for is around chest-high when the net is empty and hanging. Now, we completely understand that horses should eat with their heads lowered! We have many examples of ways to feed with our nets at a lower head height if your horse has shoes. Bottom line- shoes aren’t natural, so you must set your horse's environment up for the least risk of accidents.
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Halters on for Turn Out??
We do not ever suggest leaving a halter on while turned out; that in itself is an accident waiting to happen. But if one must be used, make sure it is a breakaway-style halter. There are many out there designed to break if the horse gets into a situation and panics.
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Blankets, Sheets & Fly Sheets…
These can all be a necessity! If you’re using one, please make sure to cover the buckles with Vet wrap or see below, as we have some exciting news about a fun and easy-to-use product we’ve created. The Hay Chix Buckle Safety Covers will save you time and are convenient to use with most buckles. These covers will help prevent your buckles from getting caught on a net while rubbing, itching or leaning over a feeder to eat. There are many fun colors to choose from and a convenience storage bag for the ones you aren’t using. Click here for more information and start saving time while keeping your horse safer.
NEW PRODUCT ALERT!!!
Each pack includes 12 covers in a variety of sizes, ensuring you have the right fit for every buckle!
