A horse walker is frequently used in many barns since it is a safe method of exercising and keeping horses limber, especially if turnout or riding time is restricted. Certain features should be taken into account when choosing the right horse walker.
Below is a list of things that will help you make the right decision concerning purchasing the right horse walker for your facility.
- Type of Horse Walker
Horse walkers are of various categories: basic mechanical walkers, covered or enclosure walkers, and even modern, sophisticated ones with auto-control mechanisms. A mechanical walker generally has arms that orbit in circular motion and are used to steer the horses to a certain point. If you need protection from the weather, an enclosed or covered walker may be more helpful. The programmable walkers include customized workouts for the facilities targeting precision and modern exercise equipment. Depending on climate, your budget and how often the type will be used are crucial factors in making the right decision.
- Number of fraction horses to excise
Another factor that has to do with the horse walker’s structure and design is the capacity of the horse walker. Some models can hold from four to six horses and have been designed for single use only. For example, if your stable contains many horses that need exercise frequently, purchasing a big multi-horse walker would be better. However, they add that if you have a small stable or own a few horses, a smaller unit may be enough. The essence here is to ensure that the walker being used will be manageable by the number of horses put on it or the other way around by having too few horses cross paths.
- Horse Walker Size
Horsey walkers come in many sizes to accommodate equine movement through various diameters. The bigger the horse, the wider you will have it so it gets adequately exercised without constriction. The width of the walking path should be in a position to enable horses to amble with ease without much stress. You also have to consider the average size of your horses and the space within your stable as you consider its width and length.
- Safety Features
Safety is the primary concern that one must consider when choosing a horse walker for sale. Only strongly built models with secure fencing and operating mechanisms that are as smooth as possible should be selected. There should not be any model with sharp edges in any part of a walker or possible gaps that can harm horses. Also, think of a model that would allow changing the speeds for various levels of exercise to avoid overexertion by horses. In addition, it is helpful regarding features such as an automatic stop mechanism in an emergency.
- Maintenance and Durability
Other factors affecting your decision are durability and ease of maintenance issues concerning a horse walker. It would help if you chose a model made from solid materials that require heavy rain or continued use to weaken. Most of them require maintenance to serve effectively and can even last longer. Some models are high maintenance compared to others; hence, it is best to seek one that fits your daily schedule and is within your budget.
Final Thoughts
The choice of the proper horse walker will be determined by your careful consideration of needs, amount of horses, safety issues, and durability in the long run. Considering these, you shall place yourself in a position to acquire a horse walker, which will go a long way towards contributing to the well-being of your horses and increasing productivity at your stable. You will then have a safe and efficient manner of exercising your horses once all the proper equipment is in place, keeping them healthy.
