Re: RC: Sand as Stall Footing/Colic Question.

[tallcarabs@juno.com]

Kathy - we filled all of my pens with sand several years ago.  It's
wonderful as it drains quickly and gets firm fast.   We get flood rains
here several times a year and it's nice to even be able to use the round
pen the next day!  I have only had one case of sand colic (out of nearly
20 horses coming and going over the course of several years).  I don't
see sand as a problem; however, if you think it may be, you can take some
precautions.  Make sure the hay is fed either in the stall on the
shavings or in a rack or have a muck bucket set out in the run for the
hay to be set in.  Same for food.  Minimize any reason your horse would
have for eating off the sand.  Every horse is an individual case, so I
would never say sand won't cause a problem because I haven't had a
problem.  Do what you can to ease your mind, then just enjoy your horse!
:o)

Rae
Tall C Arabians - SE TX

On Mon, 8 Oct 2001 10:51:39 EDT KathyZ1@aol.com writes:
> Morning folks....
> 
> I'm thinking of moving my horse to a new boarding place....closer to 
> some 
> really wonderful trails.
> This place is just great!  24x24 pipes with overhang and turn out 
> every day.  
> It's nestled in a gorgeous canyon with huge trees...well protected 
> from wind 
> and the elements.
> But.....
> The owner uses SAND on the ground in the pipe corral stalls.
> He says it can get very muddy in the winter and the sand keeps them 
> from 
> standing knee deep in mud.  Makes sense. 
> He also says it's a type of sand that doesn't cause colic(!).  Huh?
> It's a light, soft, very fine sand.
> 
> To be fair......about 1/3 of the stall is covered in rubber 
> matting...where 
> the food and water tubs are, under the overhang.
> 
> If I refuse the sand (if allowed), how bad is it for horses to stand 
> in 
> mud.....?
> I can't say I like that idea, either....but is that preferable to 
> the sand?
> 
> So am I foolish to be concerned or am I foolish to consider this 
> place.
> Susan?  Everyone?
> 
> Thanks,
> Kath