Farm and Horse Property Spring Cleaning Tips

It looks like spring has finally arrived here in Eastern Pennsylvania.  Comfortable temperatures and nice weather have brought everyone outdoors.  Even the horses are enjoying it.

Even though we would prefer to play with and ride our horses, this is also a good time to do some spring cleaning of the farm or horse property.  The best place to start would be the barn.

Removing Spider Webs

During the winter months, spider webs and dust accumulated inside the barn.  This can be a fire hazard.  Therefore, it is best to knock down the webs and do some dusting.

Disinfect Stalls

Stall walls tend to be made of porous wood or concrete.  Pathogens that cause infectious diseases can easily hide here.  Once the walls have been dusted, take a warm day to disinfect the walls.  A pressure washer would be a good and simple way of completing this task.

Clean out the tack room

The tack room also tends to accumulate dirt and dust during the winter.  Clean out all the shelves, cupboards, drawers, and any storage areas.  If possible, give it a good scrubbing with soap and water.  The vacuum the tack room.  Dispose of any expired medications, supplements, etc.  While you are at it, make sure all of your tack and equipment is clean and in good repair before using it on the horses.

Fencing

Now is a good time to do any repairs or maintenance on the fences before letting the horses into the pastures.  The fences are to be safe for horses and humans.  Otherwise, the horses and humans will find out for you, at which time it may be too late ane more damage done.

Controlling parasites

Re-evaluate your parasite control program.  Hang fly traps after the last frost date.  Here in Eastern Pennsylvania we use Mother's Day as a guide.  Also, remove any source that will allow for water to accumulate such as old tires.  Stagnant water attracts mosquitoes and flies to lay their eggs, which in turn will possibly infect the horses.

Remember the Hay Loft

Once the horses are turned out, clean out the hay loft.  Place whatever hay you have left downstairs to be used.  Then clean out the chaff, dust and cob webs.  You can mist it up there with a hose to keep the dust down.  This way it will be ready for the new supply.

Once you have completed the task of spring cleaning the farm or horse property, then go out and enjoy the spring weather with your horses.