The growth in the horse market in Brazil is influenced by breeding techniques that allow the creation of animals of high genetic value. However, achieving good results depends on following the exact characteristics required by the species. Interest in horse breeding infrastructure is one of them.

The technician in charge of the farm needs to have an in-depth knowledge of breeding management, but these should not be considered in isolation, as some facilities are essential for efficient breeding. 

That is, the overall management of the stud farm is of great importance to the results of the breeding area. Animals that are overly restrained, stressed, and have no access to food tend to present lower than desired reproductive performance.

In this article we will give you some instructions for assembling a proper breeding structure for your horse. Good read! 

How to obtain an infrastructure for the  proper breeding of horses

Horses are gregarious animals, perfectly adaptable to life in society and living with humans. For this reason, they require accommodation that respects the characteristics of their atmosphere, with the aim of providing maximum comfort for the animals. In general, planning for building facilities should be simple, practical and provide safety for both animals and those who come into direct contact with them.

When establishing the facility, the following must be taken into account: 

• The purpose of creation
• number of animals
• race or species
• animal category
• climate;
• soil fertility and land topography;
• Drinking water facility.

Also, some structures should be part of the infrastructure for the breeding of horses and for the daily activities of the horses. A pasture, for example, consists of a fenced area with green matter on which the animal feeds during much of the day. In addition to managing food, building is also important to the well-being of horses, which can be bred more freely. In contrast, fences are essential to demarcate an area in which an animal can run around and prevent escape.

In the appropriate facility there are also stalls, if the animal was raised in confinement. The place will serve the horses to sleep and spend part of their time. Ventilation and space should be taken care of depending on the size of the horse. Inside the stalls, the animals stay in a place known as a bed, consisting of absorbent material placed on the floor, with the function of ensuring comfort and cleanliness. 

Within the stalls it is possible to build a space intended for laying hay, known as a feneira or manger. Finally, it is recommended to install a sink in a clean, dry place for serving food, as well as an easily accessible water sink.

To maintain a more complete infrastructure, it is advisable to have some rooms to store the equipment used in daily administration and to set up a pharmacy with stocks of medicines that may be needed at any time. 

What is important to work with horse breeding

The branch of horse breeding requires a trained professional to perform each job and a quality structure that allows for greater safety and ease during the procedures. As already mentioned, pastures are indispensable in horse breeding.

In addition, managing reproduction for horses requires other infrastructures. A containment stump is an essential component of the horse breeding infrastructure. The organism aids in the safety of many examinations, such as  rectal palpation  , which is an essential procedure in female reproductive evaluation and in gynecological examination. It is important to note that, unlike cattle, horses require facilities that allow a view of the environment, so the use of containment stumps in which the animals’ heads are placed facing a wall is not recommended.

Investing in technology can help, too.  Ultrasound  examinations precede many reproductive programs and are essential parts of the diagnosis. Therefore, more than having a modern and professional device that knows how to use it, it is essential to have enough space to operate it. The same thing happens with semen freezing equipment at properties that invest more in biotechnology and that have qualified veterinarians. 

There are many options for those looking to work with horse breeding, but the wide range of possibilities also requires frequent updating by professionals. Find out about  horse reproduction courses at CPT Cursos Presencials  and work in a very lucrative area these days!

Sources: Equine Reproductive Management Course. Horse breeding; CPT Classroom Courses; CPT courses at Site 2; equestrian engineering; Tripucci, AOM; Brandy, RA; Fiorelli, J.