EFFECT OF PEAT AS BEDDING MATERIAL ON THE WELFARE AND HEALTH OF HORSES

摘要

Effects of two different bedding materials (wood chips and peat) on equine welfare and health were tested. These factors were evaluated on the grounds of respiratory health and quality of hooves. Measurements were also made to assess stable conditions, especially ammonium and dust levels. The respiratory symptoms increased in both experimental groups. The situation in the peat group returned to original level in the end of the trial but horses continued to be symptomatic in the wood chip bedding group. In the peat bedding the hooves of the horses had better moisture content. On the grounds of our results, peat seems to be better bedding material for horses compared to wood chips.