Publication type: article from Cheval Magazine (subscribers only)
Summary: In the wild, horses have a rich social life and can move around whenever they choose. Moreover, they are never still except when asleep. In boxes their movements are restrictive while in the paddock they regain a semblance of freedom. But what do the horses think? How should these spaces be laid out? This article, from a researcher in ethology, sets out the results of recent scientific studies that can be transposed to the everyday practices of horse owners. Currently, most horses are still kept in boxes, so the researchers asked the horses questions: do they prefer to go back to the box or go out in the paddock, do they want to be alone or with other horses? The preferences shown by the horses correspond to situations that promote welfare: seeking exercise and contact with other horses. This article then goes on to describe the advantages of time spent in the paddock for horses housed in boxes and good ways of achieving this without risk to the safety of the horses.
