General Considerations

The location of the feed shed should be as central as possible to the main stable complex. In the case of a barn-type yard it could be in the middle of the line of boxes. A lot of time is wasted going to and from the feed shed if it is not conveniently sited.

Materials for the feed-shed construction will be either bricks or wood. A damp-proof course in the floor is recommended, to keep the shed dry. Accessibility for deliveries is important so there should be enough room outside to allow lorries to park and turn around.

The size of the feed shed will depend on the number of horses kept, but for practical purposes it will need to store at least one week's feed. An average size would be 14 ft x 16 ft (4.25 m x 4.85 m) for a yard of up to ten horses. A wide door affords better access for carrying sacks; an 'up and over' garage door is ideal.

A water tap, either inside or nearby outside, is essential, but where funds are available it is both convenient and labor-saving to supply the feed shed with hot and cold running water and a large sink. The feed-shed area should be kept clean and tidy with utensils and feed receptacles regularly washed.

Good lighting is important and a large fluorescent strip is ideal. If the roof is fitted with Perspex sheets it will help make the shed light and save on electricity.

Vermin Control and Cleanliness

As far as possible the feed shed should be vermin proof, although this is difficult to achieve because vermin can chew their way in through woodwork. A pest-control programe should be employed because vermin can cause many pounds' worth of damage and are a constant health hazard. One of the most common diseases which can be transmitted to horses and dogs via the rat is leptospirosis. It is therefore important to ensure that the feed shed is swept out after every feed time and room is left around the bins and sacks for the stable cat or dog to seek out its quarry. Waste collected in a bin or sack should be disposed of once or twice a week. Stale or left-over feed can be deposited on the muck heap but should never be left in the feed shed. It is a good idea to hang a brush and shovel in the feed shed to encourage cleanliness.