Paradise paddock track systems have been gaining popularity in recent years as a natural and effective way to manage horses. If you’re a horse owner, you may have heard of the many benefits of paddock track systems for your horse’s health and well-being. Here’s why you should consider a paradise paddock track system for your tiger horse.
I had heard about the benefits of a track system for horses and decided to give it a try for my 10-year-old gelding, Max. I hired a contractor to build the track system in my pasture, and it took about a week to complete. Max was a bit curious about the construction process, but he quickly adjusted to the changes.
The track system was a 12-foot-wide path that wound around the perimeter of the pasture, covering about 1 acre. The footing was a mix of pea gravel and sand, which provided good drainage and was easy on Max’s hooves. We also added some shade structures and water troughs along the track to ensure Max had access to shelter and hydration during hot days.
At first, Max was hesitant to leave his familiar grazing spots in the middle of the pasture. But as he began to explore the track, he quickly discovered the benefits of the system. He had plenty of room to move around and could graze in different areas throughout the day. The varied terrain also provided him with a good workout and kept him mentally stimulated.
I’m thrilled with the results of the track system. Max is healthier and happier than ever, and I feel good knowing that he has a natural and stimulating environment to live in, and I will never go back to the transitional way of stalling my horses.
One of the most significant benefits of a paddock track system is that it mimics a horse’s natural environment. Horses are naturally grazing animals that are designed to move and eat throughout the day. In a traditional stall setting, horses are confined to a small space, which can lead to a number of health problems, including colic, ulcers, and obesity. With a paddock track system, horses have access to a larger space where they can move and graze throughout the day. This helps to keep their digestive system healthy, as well as improve their overall physical and mental health.
Another benefit of a paddock track system is that it can reduce stress in horses. Horses that are confined to a stall can become bored and anxious, leading to destructive behaviors such as cribbing or weaving. A paddock track system allows horses to move freely and socialize with other horses, which can reduce stress and promote natural behaviors.
If you’re interested in implementing a paddock track system for your horse, there are a few key resources that can help you get started. “Paddock Paradise: A Guide to Natural Horse Boarding” by Jaime Jackson is a great resource for learning more about the benefits of paddock track systems and how to implement them on your property. Jackson is an expert in natural horse care and has spent years studying wild horses and their natural behaviors. His book provides a comprehensive guide to designing and implementing a paddock track system that works for your horse.
Another great resource for horse owners is “The Horse Owner’s Guide to Natural Hoof Care” by Jaime Jackson. This book focuses specifically on natural hoof care and provides a step-by-step guide to caring for your horse’s hooves naturally. Since horses in a paddock track system are constantly moving, it’s important to keep their hooves healthy and well-maintained. This book provides valuable information on how to do just that.
When building a track system for horses, it is important to consider the size and layout of the paddock, as well as the materials used. A typical track system includes a central track or path, which should be wide enough for a horse to walk comfortably, as well as a surrounding area for grazing and resting.
The track should be made of a durable and safe material, such as crushed rock, pea gravel, or sand. The surrounding area can be grass, but should be well-maintained to prevent overgrazing and erosion.
When calculating the materials needed, it is important to consider the size of the track and surrounding area, as well as the desired depth of the footing material. For example, a 100 ft x 200 ft track with a 6-inch depth of footing material would require approximately 200 tons of material.
It is also important to consider drainage when building a track system. The track should be built with a slight slope to ensure proper drainage and prevent pooling of water.
Building a track system for horses requires careful planning and consideration of various factors. It is recommended to consult with a professional or experienced builder to ensure the safety and durability of the track system.
Here’s an example of how to build a simple track system for horses:
Start by marking out the boundaries of your track system. It can be any shape or size, but most are oval or rectangular.
Clear the area of any rocks, trees, or other debris that could pose a hazard to your horse. Make sure the ground is level and free from any holes or bumps.
Lay down a layer of geotextile fabric to prevent weeds from growing up through the track. This will also help with drainage.
Next, add a layer of compacted limestone or gravel. This will provide a firm, stable surface for your horse to walk on.
Install the fencing. Most track systems use a combination of wood or metal posts and electric tape or wire. Make sure the fencing is secure and at least 4.5 feet high to prevent your horse from jumping out.
Add any additional features you want, such as a watering station, shelter, or feeding area.
Finally, add the finishing touches, such as soft footing in areas where your horse will be trotting or cantering, and any decorative elements you like.
Materials needed:
- Geotextile fabric
- Limestone or gravel
- Wooden or metal posts
- Electric tape or wire
- Soft footing (optional)
Calculations: The amount of materials needed will depend on the size and shape of your track system. Measure the area to be covered with geotextile fabric and limestone or gravel to determine the amount needed. Calculate the number of posts needed based on the length of fencing required, and add additional posts for corners and gates.
Does my track has to be grass free?
No, a track system does not necessarily have to be grass-free, but it’s recommended to have a strip of dirt or gravel along the track to avoid overgrazing and to reduce mud in wet weather. Some horse owners also opt for adding different footing materials on the track to create variety and stimulate the horse’s hooves and muscles. Ultimately, the specific design of the track system will depend on factors such as the climate, soil type, available materials, and the individual needs of the horses using it.
Research has also shown the benefits of a paddock track system for horses. A study published in the Journal of Equine Veterinary Science found that horses kept in a paddock track system had significantly lower stress levels and fewer behavioral problems than horses kept in traditional stalls. The study also found that horses in a paddock track system had improved hoof health and better overall physical condition.
In terms of resources and materials needed to implement a paddock track system, there are a few key things to consider. First, you’ll need to have enough space on your property to set up a track system. The size of the track will depend on the number of horses you have and the amount of space available. You’ll also need to consider the type of fencing you’ll use, as well as any additional features such as shelter or water sources.
Any benefit of grass-free track system?
Yes, there are several benefits to having a grass-free track system for horses:
Reduced risk of laminitis:
Laminitis is a common and serious health condition in horses that can be triggered by overconsumption of lush, high-sugar grass. A grass-free track system eliminates this risk by providing horses with controlled access to low-sugar forage and avoiding the need for pasture grazing.
More efficient use of land:
Grass-free track systems require less land than traditional pasture setups, as they focus on creating a defined path for horses to move around. This means that more horses can be kept on a smaller amount of land, without compromising their welfare.
Improved hoof health:
Walking on varied terrain and surfaces, such as gravel, sand, and dirt, can help to improve the strength and health of a horse’s hooves. This is because it encourages natural wear and tear, which can help to prevent issues such as overgrown hooves and thrush.
Better exercise and mental stimulation:
A track system that includes obstacles and varied terrain can provide horses with more interesting and challenging exercise than a flat, featureless pasture. This can help to improve their fitness, as well as their mental wellbeing.
In my opinion a grass-free track system can be a great option for horse owners who want to provide their horses with a safe, healthy, and stimulating environment to live in. However, it’s important to note that the track should still provide adequate access to forage, water, and shelter, as well as regular care and maintenance.
here are some book recommendations and research papers on track systems for horses:
“Paddock Paradise: A Guide to Natural Horse Boarding” by Jaime Jackson Link: https://www.amazon.com/Paddock-Paradise-Guide-Natural-Boarding/dp/0965800787
Horse Track Systems: A ‘How To’ Guide to a Healthier Horse in Body and Mind by Amy Dell: https://www.amazon.com/Horse-Track-Systems-Guide-Healthier/dp/0993504833
“The Natural Horse: Lessons from the Wild for Domestic Horse Care” by Jaime Jackson Link: https://www.amazon.com/Natural-Horse-Lessons-Wild-Domestic/dp/0965800736
Research Papers:
“The Effect of a Track System on the Behavior and Welfare of Domestic Horses (Equus caballus)” by Kate Fenner and Andrew McLean Link: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/303394741_The_Effect_of_a_Track_System_on_the_Behaviour_and_Welfare_of_Domestic_Horses_Equus_caballus
“Impact of Exercise and Track Systems on Lameness in Horses” by Patricia Pence and Stephanie Valberg Link: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6476672/
“Paddock Paradise Track Systems: A Novel Way to Promote Exercise for Domestic Horses” by Julia M. Felippe and Sarah M. Biasutti Link: https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2019.00030/full
Overall, a paddock track system can be a great investment for horse owners looking to improve their horse’s health and well-being. By mimicking a horse’s natural environment and promoting natural behaviors, a paddock track system can help keep horses healthy, happy, and stress-free. With the right resources and support, implementing a paddock track system can be a rewarding and beneficial experience for both you and your horse.