Swing Into Selecting Your New Playset with Confidence

kids on playset

The choice of playsets is vast and varied and figuring out the best one to select for your family as a parent or grandparent can be a difficult task.

Considerations of available space, site and setting for the new playset, construction materials and design, price and of course, the ages and interests of the lucky children that will enjoy the healthy benefits of utilizing the playset all play into making the perfect decision.

Here’s some help to give you confidence in making the right swing set and playset choice for your individual needs.

Space, Siting and Setting

Everyone has a different scale of backyard and space to layout a playset. Variances in grade and type of terrain, sun and shade aspects, drainage concerns, distance from neighbors and the view from the house will determine the location of exactly where to place the new playset to a large degree.

Points to consider:

  • Choose a level area to avoid extra costs for regrading the garden and avoid the associated extra costs and hassle such actions would incur. Don’t place the playset in an area prone to flooding or a site that offers poor drainage as this will necessarily increase the amount of possible contamination of the soil on site and the amount of pesky bugs including mosquitoes in the immediate vicinity.
  • Access for delivery of materials such as sand, wood or rubber mulch, artificial turf and the playset itself. Concrete should never be used as a base for a playset for obvious reasons.
  • It’s a good idea to select a site in partial sun/shade especially if you live in a hot climate. Also bear in mind falling leaves and clean up needs in Fall if you designate a shady spot under a large tree and the likelihood of damage to the playset from falling branches in high winds.
  • Placement of playset should be away from obstacles such as tree trunks, fences, sheds and other hard surfaces such as concrete driveways.
  • A site that is within easy view of the house will add another level of safety and playset should not be close to public access such as roads to ensure privacy and security of the children.
  • Fencing in your backyard from intruders, roaming neighborhood dogs or wildlife in rural areas will help keep the playset area free of animal feces, though cats’ innate attraction to digging in sand to use as a bathroom may always be a problem.
  • Setting the playset against a backdrop of a hedge or garden area will nestle the playset into the landscape if you don’t want it to stand out. Traditional wood playsets treated with eco-friendly stains can provide longevity of product if brighter vinyl ‘kid pleasing’ colors are not wanted.
  • Neighbors may not appreciate the noise your children will inevitably make enjoying themselves playing on the set. Try not to ‘plant’ the playset right next to a neighbor’s pool/patio or outside living area if this might be an issue.
  • Check if a build permit is needed. While this is unlikely different restrictions apply in different regions especially for larger builds.

wood playset

 

Wood Versus Vinyl and Don’t Forget Quality 

Most people have a very strong preference for one over the other. Be particularly sensitive to the preferences of the actual property owners if you are buying a playset for someone else, especially when buying for grandkids and setting up in their parents’ backyard.

Here is a super reference on the pros and cons of wood and vinyl options.

Whether you choose wood or vinyl, the most important criteria for any swing set and playset you buy is that of good quality. Safety and durability of the playset are both significantly impacted by exactly how the playset is constructed and the materials that are used and how they are engineered.

Key components to look for are:

  • No rust and no splinter components throughout the playset.
  • Through-bolting of all major construction points.
  • Heavy duty swing bearings.
  • Use of pressure treated lumber, including where wood is encased in vinyl.
  • Capped edges with no sharp protrusions.
  • Durable floorboards that are barefoot friendly and rock walls.

Finances, Warranties and Capital Costs

Who you choose to partner with to make your playset purchase is of the utmost importance. Choose a company that stands behind its product with simple to access and easy to understand warranties.

To fund the spend on a new playset consider working with a company that offers financing so that the initial expense can be spread over an extended period, especially if the Spring or Summer season is already here and you want to get maximum use out of the playset right away.

When choosing a playset be aware that many options exist to ‘add as you go.’ This is a great idea if the children are just toddlers. As the kids grow you can make additions to the playset jigsaw puzzle that best serve their athletic abilities and size. Remember playsets have a 2nd life after the kids are all grown and out of the house, either for future generations or can be successfully sold to other families in the secondhand marketplace.

Mountains or Molehills, Swings or Slides?

Our children often surprise us with their abundance of curiosity and interest in finding something new to do and the innate courage and ability to do it.

While ‘Little Jill’ may show interest in swings, you may also find that when presented with a tunnel or climbing frame she loves to engage in make believe.

kid on slide

‘Little Johnny,’ may seem timid to scale anything off the ground and yet climbing a small set of stairs in front of an older sibling may inspire him to take delight in sliding downhill at speed.

Kids always surprise us. One of the best ways to find what your kids like is simply to watch them play on a public playground and see how they navigate and explore the playground. If you want to encourage your kids out of their comfort zone, then adding a variety of options to the playset will offer more activities and build a different set of strengths both mental and physical.

Also consider that other children of friends and family will periodically enjoy the playset. The benefit of having a minimum of 2/3 different activities on the playset, especially those that can be completed alongside will limit arguments over who gets to do what, when!

Whatever You Choose

Remember that whatever playset you choose the kids are going to love it. Freedom to play without the need for a taxi service to friends’ houses or events will give you more free time too.

Being active and outside and away from the ‘screen plague’ is an easy sell to children, and it tiring them out and depleting their seemingly endless energy means a good night’s sleep for everyone.

Watching children at play can be both informative and entertaining. And the best benefit of all is knowing where your kids are, who they are with and what they are ‘up to’.

kids on playset

Obviously, there are a litany of health and developmental benefits that go alongside social play and even just swinging. These discoveries will be made as you go along. Have fun!

The Do’s and Don’ts of Buying Your Perfect Dog Kennel

A quality outdoor kennel is a must have for many pet owners. It can provide a safe, comfortable and secure place for dogs of all sizes to call “home.” However, when it comes to shopping for a new dog kennel, there is no shortage of different options out there, making it difficult for some dog owners to find the right structure for their home.

While there are plenty of options out there when it comes to dog kennels for outside, there are certain “dos” and “don’ts” that should be considered when finding a new home for your dogs. It isn’t just about finding the right color and a roof for over their heads. Keeping these tips in mind can help anyone searching for a new perfect kennel to narrow down their options and find the perfect structure for their property.

These simple tips will help make certain you are making a smart investment and finding a new home for your canine companion that truly checks all of the boxes.

Dog House Buying “Do’s”

If you are looking for a new dog kennel for outside your home here are a few “dos” that you should keep in mind that will help keep your pet as happy and healthy as possible.

dog kennel

  • Always buy a dog kennel made out of wood. Wood is the best insulator known to man. Pet owners should always choose a kennel made out of wood frame to insure it’s a high-quality, durable addition to their property. In fact, the materials used in your dog’s kennel shouldn’t differ much from those used to make your home.
  • Buy a structure that has a shingled roof to reduce the sun’s heat in the summer and maintain adequate heat retention in the winter. Metal is also another great upgraded option for your roof. Of course, the right roof not only helps with the interior temperature of your kennel, but will help keep water out of your dog’s kennel as well.
  • Pay close attention to the dog door. There should be a door from the kennel to a wood dog box so your pet can sleep in a warm space during the colder months. Your pet should always be able to get in and out of this door on their own. The dog door should have a flap that prevents warm air from escaping and a durable, stainless steel frame that discourages chewing.
  • Make sure that your kennel can be raised off the ground for better climate control. This will not only help with the temperature of your structure, but a raised dog house will actually deter flea infestations as well and help keep the interior dry and comfortable.
  • Make sure there is a roof or awning over your dog’s exterior run. This way, when they spend time outdoors getting fresh air, they still have access to extra shade and protection from the elements.

Dog Kennel Buying “Don’ts”

dog plastic house

  • Don’t put your dog in a plastic house. While plastic may be a more economical option, it is not an insulating material. A plastic dog structure will be too cold in the winter and too hot in the summer. Materials like this are also more susceptible to weather damage.
  • Don’t buy a house that doesn’t have separate designated areas for your pet. Your dog kennel should have an outdoor run and an interior box. If you are buying a structure for multiple pets, you should also make sure there are separated runs inside and a designated eating spot for each pet.
  • Don’t forget about cleaning. One of the most difficult components of maintaining a large dog kennel is keeping it clean. Investing in a dog kennel that also has water hook ups can make all of the difference in the ease of use of your kennel. Whether you are hosing out your kennel or need water for grooming and bathing—your kennel should either have a built-in water hookup or one nearby.
  • Don’t choose a dog kennel made of toxic materials. Pay close attention to the materials used to construct this dog kennel. Unfortunately, sometimes dogs tend to chew on their kennel. You want to make sure that they aren’t chewing on, or breathing in, any type of toxic chemicals.
  • Don’t skip on ventilation. Make sure there are windows in your dog kennel so you can open up the windows when necessary to allow fresh air in and air out your space. A simple window with a screen can work wonders in helping ventilate the space.
  • Don’t forget about electricity. This is one of the most popular additions to dog kennels and can allow you to add lighting, heating, AC and other features. When your structure comes outfitted with an electrical package, it makes it easy for a certified electrician to come in and bring power to your structure.

The right dog kennel is an important addition to your property and should not only work for your pets, but work for you as well. This is why it is important to find a structure that is functional for your pets and for your everyday life. Whether you have an individual family pet, or if you are running a commercial kennel, the right structure is paramount to your dog’s day-to-day life.

Here at Horizon Structures, we’re not just here to create quality dog kennels, we’re here to make sure that you are finding the right and perfect kennel for your home. This is why we not only have premium structures made out of the same materials that you would find in your own home—but we also offer plenty of upgrades so you can customize your structure perfectly to fit your needs.

Our Horizon Structures kennels will ensure that you not only can find a kennel that checks all of the “do” boxes on your list—but that you have plenty of optional upgrades available that will help you create the perfect structure for your pets.

Chicken Sense – How to Protect Your Chickens From Bird Flu

Recent outbreak of avian bird flu virus A in the U.S. poultry population has seen over 53 million chickens culled in the State of Iowa alone thus far in 2022. On the East Coast small poultry farmers and homesteaders such as the Monroe County Marsala family in Upstate NY, have also seen their flocks destroyed as a result of the virus. Their cry on You Tube, It’s Real, Cover Your Birds!

Many chicken keepers love to allow their chickens free range access, where their appetite for pecking on pesky bugs, scavenging and scratching around the yard as they fancy for food to eat is part of a healthy lifestyle for the poultry. When chickens remain in an enclosed space there are both advantages and disadvantages to consider, but the change in lifestyle might be something to seriously consider if your chickens are the ‘out on the town’ variety. Knowing how to protect chickens from bird flu is a great step to saving your flocks. Here’s why:

According to the CDC, unless humans come into direct contact with a chicken carrying chicken flu the risks of human contagion are low. Understanding how chickens become infected with the virus is key to avian flu precautions. U Here’s what the CDC explains

“Wild water birds (like ducks and geese) can be infected with avian (bird) influenza (flu) viruses, but usually do not get sick. Infected birds have virus in their saliva, mucous and droppings (feces). Bird flu viruses can spread easily between birds. Some of these viruses can cause serious illness and death in domestic poultry (like chickens, ducks, and turkeys).

Domesticated birds (chickens, turkeys, ducks, etc.) can become infected with bird flu A viruses through direct contact with infected waterfowl or other infected poultry, or through contact with surfaces that have been contaminated with the viruses. Bird Flu is a serious poultry disease and requires rapid response because it is highly contagious and can be fatal to chickens. Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) works with its federal, state, local and industry partners to quickly respond to any bird flu findings. Bird flu A(H5) or A(H7) virus outbreaks in poultry, where depopulation (or culling, also called “stamping out”) of infected flocks is usually carried out.

Provision of a covered chicken run or space adjoining the coop can mitigate the risk of the poultry running ‘afowl’ of infected feces/droppings or mucous surfaces where infected wildlife has brought the virus to roost.

Loss of your chicken flock is not something to joke about, and is extremely upsetting, as the Marsala family indicate in their video. Chickens become more than just an investment in egg production, they are often a part of family life and each chicken has its own individual personality which endears some of them more to us than others.

Options for chicken runs do run the gamut in square footage, size and roof styles. Large or small is probably better than none at all. And the covered area provided protection from overhead predators and neighborhood dogs and roaming wildlife.

Selection of the best chicken coop includes consideration for the outdoor activities of its residents.

Full customization of a chicken coop that includes a built-in run is available at Horizon Structures. From human height access doors for easy caregiving duties to large (4’, 5’ or 6’) to wire floor runs and color options to ensure the coop complements existing structures on the property, the array of choices is mind-boggling.

Interaction with wild birds is much less likely when the chickens are secure in their own run. They are also less likely to have an unwanted interaction with a car or other motorized vehicle or wander off to lay eggs where they won’t be found during egg collection time by the caregiver.

 

With the increasing prevalence of avian flu in the U.S, it may be time to consider a coop with a build in run. You can shop the lot if you want one right way, or place and order and have it delivered to just the right spot in your backyard.

5 Horse Handling Hacks to Improve Safety in the Barn

The care, custody and control responsibilities of working with horses usually includes handling the noble beasts in confined spaces. Daily duties often include leading the horses to and from pastures to the shelter of a stable or horse barn. Whatever the design or style of horse housing utilized, there are many opportunities for accidents to happen that can result in minor or major injuries to horse or human.

Accidents are defined as unexpected events that are not intended but that cause damage or injury. Horses are large, unpredictable creatures of flight so horse trainers/owners/handlers should truly learn to ‘expect the unexpected’ and be proactive in accident prevention.

Sadly, every year many injuries occur that could easily have been prevented with the use of a few simple training techniques for horse and handler. It is not just the neophyte horse owners or caregivers that cause preventable injuries. Often knowledgeable and experienced horse people are lulled into bad practices and become casual in their handling habits regarding their equine charges.

Remember every time you are in a horse’s presence you are teaching it something. Make sure it is something you want it to learn.

The practice of opening the pasture gate and allowing horses to move freely to their barn stalls either ‘en masse’ or individually may seem fun and be quicker to do than taking the time to halter the horse(s) and lead them to the barn, but such actions can also result in horses becoming injured.

Arguments can occur between horses as to who has which stall, inadvertent kicks can cause injury to horses/humans and damage to property, horses can hit their hips entering the stall in a rush etc.

Additionally haltering and leading a horse is a valuable training opportunity.

Here are 5 safe horse handling tips that when consistently implemented may help mitigate the risk for injury to horse and human:

The Simple Stop

It may seem simple but the ‘stop’ offers a significant safety benefit when leading the horse in and out of the barn. Teaching your horse to halt when being led on a halter with the rope is easy to do. Safety caveats include:

  • Never wrap the rope around the hand or fingers or drape it over your shoulder as a sudden movement from the horse could cause significant injury.
  • The habit of throwing the lead rope over the horse’s back as it enters the stall alone while the handler stands back can cause injuries such as rope burns to the horse should the rope fall to the floor and the horse step on it.
  • Ensure the horse’s halter is properly fitted. The noseband should be placed 1” below the cheek bone. Both the noseband and the throat latch should be a snug enough fit to ensure the halter won’t come forward and over the horse’s ears should he back up or come off under the horse’s chin if he rears up or pulls back.
  • If a lead shank is used instead of a rope, it should not be looped through the halter and clipped back to itself. This could result on a horse stepping a hoof through the loop in the chain if grazing or dropping its head and cause the horse to panic and thus result in serious injury.

Training Tips:

  • Voice commands should always be used in addition to rope tugs that exert pressure on the noseband of the halter.
  • The use of the word halt, or whoa, given in a commanding voice in a low tone combined with a light pull and release of the rope is all that should be needed to halt the horse. Remember it is the release that teaches the horse not the application of pressure.
  • The handler is at the shoulder of the horse and stops alongside the horse at the same time. The horse can be rewarded with praise and a pat on the shoulder and then asked to ‘step up’ or ‘walk on’.
  • After training test the horse’s understanding of this very basic task by using just the verbal command i.e., the handler walks forward a few steps after issuing the halt command and stands still while asking the horse to step up or walk on.
  • Eye contact made at the time of the halt and then released when asking the horse to step forward can also be employed.
  • Should the horse not understand or respond to the halt command it is important not to start a tug of war on the rope. Simply walk forward a few steps and ask again. Eventually the horse will ascertain how easy it is to comply and seek the positive reinforcement reward.

The horse should always be halted before being led into a barn, before being led into or out of a stall or through a doorway to an indoor arena.

This gives the handler the opportunity to ensure there are no obstacles such as tack boxes, skips etc. other horses, pets, children, adults or vehicles blocking or impeding the safe passage of both horse and handler through the door, along an aisleway, or in the stall space.

Horses’ vision is not the same as human vision and does not adapt from light to dark in seconds. It can take more than 30 minutes for a horse to transition to full vision when going from bright outdoor light to the relative darkness of a barn.

During snowy winter months, halting a horse before entering the barn also gives the handler time to garner help to pick snow from the horse’s hooves that may have balled up during cold weather.

Removal of these ‘snow angels’ on barefoot horses or ice/snow packed in shod horses’ feet before attempting to traverse a rubber matted or concrete aisleway will help prevent the horse slipping thus minimizing the chance for soft tissue injury that is especially likely when making a sharp turn into a stall. This precaution may even prevent a horse from going down altogether and fracturing bones such as the pelvis.

Handling Hack: As a seasoned horse trainer I additionally train my horses to mimic my ‘walk like a penguin’ action inside and outside the barn when a covering of snow or ice is on the ground. Taking these ‘little steps’ lessens the likelihood of the horse and myself skating around.

The use of the halt also enables the handler to ensure they are safely placed in optimal position just in front of the horse’s shoulder to step into a stall in advance of the horse and guide the animal through the center of the door entrance. This will help ensure the horse does not bang his hip on a side post which can cause injury or even permanent damage and reduces the risk of a blanket catching on a door frame or stall door latch.

Helpful information for stall barn door designs is neatly addressed in this blog, “Open the Door to Horse Safety.”

Take The Time to Turn Around

When leading a horse into a stall or paddock it is always wise to take the time to turn the horse around so that it is facing the entrance with the handler at its head. Not only does this eliminate the opportunity for the horse to duck through a door or gate and escape the pasture or stall, but it also minimizes the risk of injury for the handler at the time the horse is released.

It is usual to remain on the inside of the horse and turn him around the handler keeping his head toward the handler as this swings his hind legs away from the human and makes it easier to maintain control. Remember wherever a horse’s head is pointed he will most likely follow.

Horses may also be taught to turn around or move over in the stall when the stall is being mucked out. The use of an intermittent tap on the horse’s girth area together with a verbal cue of ‘move over’ and praise reward when the horse complies, (especially when the horse may be eating), should be trained in the horse from an early age.

Move the horse’s feet to control its mind.

Halter Head Drop

Horses of many breeds tower above humans particularly when they are excited such as when being turned out, feed times etc.

Whenever the horse is to be released either by unclipping the rope and leaving the halter on the horse or by removing the halter, it is more easily and certainly more safely completed if the horse is taught to drop its head for the process and to wait for a verbal cue before turning away or leaving.

Safety note: Always remove halters for turnout if equine hay feeders are present in the pasture to prevent the halter becoming hung up on unnoticed protrusions. Water buckets and hooks in a stall and blanket hardware incorrectly adjusted with the outer edges of clips facing outward, can pose a similar hazard.

Handling Hack:

Food rewards should be carefully used in training so as not to teach the horse to nip or search for treats every time he is handled. I use carrots as a healthy treat whenever placing a halter on a horse or removing it. The carrot is easy to see and smell from the horse’s perspective and is unlikely to be dropped. For safety, if it does end up on the ground don’t reach down to get it, let the horse pick it up.

I give the thinner half of the carrot as a reward for dropping the head after the horse has patiently waited for me to buckle up the halter and clip on the rope, and the second half after the halter is safely removed.

The time it takes the horse to chow down on the carrot allows extra time for the handler to leave the paddock or stall safely and its size minimizes the risk of the horse finding my fingers instead of the treat if it is excited.

Bubbles and Backing Up

All horses should be taught to respect the ‘bubble’ or immediate space around their human handlers. A horse should also be trained to back up on command. The latter facilitates more control for all sorts of life events, such as trailering and transport, extricating a horse from a hazardous situation such as entanglement in a fence or gateway etc.

Backing up a horse is also used to instill in the horse who is in charge. Horses in a herd will back up away from the leader if challenged, and similarly the human handler can use backing up to teach the horse who is ‘the boss’ without ever needing to touch the horse.

Whenever a caregiver enters a stall, the resident equine should immediately turn to face them and then back away on a verbal cue to allow space for the handler to enter the stall.

Training Tips:

  • Use of a whip acts as an extension of the handler’s arm when training. Train the horse to be unafraid of the whip before beginning, by passing it along his shoulders and flanks. The additional distance from the horse that a whip provides offers more safety to the handler during the exercise.
  • As with all training cues keep them consistent and allow time for the horse to comply. Begin with a physical touch to the horse’s nose pushing it back toward its chest with the hand and tapping the point of the horse’s shoulder with the whip asking it to ‘step back.’ Reward compliance with a praise reward.
  • Rhythm is important in all horse training. Taps given in a predictable rhythm will relax the horse. If the horse overreacts then the impact of the tap was too much, if he does not react at all then the tap was not hard enough. Don’t be aggressive, be assertive.
  • Stop tapping and offer the praise reward immediately the horse positively responds, but don’t stop tapping until some effort in the right direction has been made.
  • Reward even the tiniest of movements or efforts from the horse in the right direction. Backing up is a hard task for a horse to accept as he cannot see directly behind him.
  • If the horse doesn’t immediately comply you can tap the near front hoof with your foot to tell it to move the hoof back.
  • Always stand to the side of the front of the horse, not directly in front when training unless you are an experienced professional.
  • Once the horse understands the instruction, you can migrate the cue to holding your hand up as a ‘stop’ sign while still using the verbal cue and moving your hand toward the horse as if pushing an invisible wall, or you can simply use your arm to point and direct the horse using it like a whip.

Tying and Cross Ties

There are many different methods utilized to teach the horse to stand tied up or on cross ties. Whichever method is chosen, it all begins with teaching the horse to stand still.

During a horse’s life it is inevitable that it will need to be restrained at some juncture by being tied up. Trailer transport, cross ties utilized for tacking up and grooming, standing tied to a trailer at a horse show etc.

Horses that pull back when tied can easily panic and injure themselves or others. It is important that the horse has been trained to step forward when pressure is applied to the halter rather than step back, before teaching the horse to tie up.

As with any other training of the horse it is the release of pressure that teaches the horse the best course of action, not its application.

Be aware that foals are particularly prone to damage to the cervical area of their spines (this is one of the reasons most horse breeders choose to use pressure from a rope behind the foal as well as a halter rope in front when teaching them to lead), so special care should be taken to train the foal. Tying up is one of the last things to teach a foal, and it should not be done until the horse is at least 6 months old and weaned.

Patience poles/snubbing posts are mostly used as a punishment, and I do not personally advocate their use.

Whatever method is employed, opt for ones that are kind, safe and offer a positive experience for the horse.

Remember to always stay out of the kick zone when training a horse to any task.

Take Home Message

Horses are amazing creatures. Their noble natures and smart intellects make them great partners in life. Keeping both horses and humans as happy and safe from injury and damage as possible is always the goal.

The horse’s amiable disposition allows it to trust its human counterpart, but this also exposes it to risk of abuse. Always honor the bond of trust and do everything to ensure it is built upon every day.

To quote one of my husband Paul’s (who is also a GP trainer/clinician/competitor) favorite expressions when teaching students to train their horses:

“When training the horse, whisper don’t shout.”

Save The Drive But Keep Your New Horse Barn Dream Alive

“Just Because You Live In The Sticks Doesn’t Mean Your Barn Has To Be Stick-Built.”

While the advent of Spring is the perfect time to get busy with plans laid dormant through winter months for a new horse barn the reality is any time of year is a good time to get busy with the new horse barn project.

The trouble is no matter what the season it is hard to find the time it takes to visit prospective barn builders, sit down to discuss all the upgrades and available options and gain a perspective on all the choices and price points out there for a brand-new beautiful horse barn. Horse owners are often juggling busy lives with multiple demands on their time and energy hitting them from all directions.

Add to the time management issue the cost of fuel to undertake the seemingly necessary drive time and make these trips, and the dream of the new barn may seem a long way away.

Thankfully, modern technology offers a viable alternative scenario where the prospective barn buyer can choose the perfect barn to fit their needs, wants, and budget from the comfort of their own home and on their own schedule.

Just because you live in the sticks, doesn’t mean you have to buy a stick-built barn with all the hidden costs, budget overruns and blind trust that the result of the spend of your hard-earned money will meet or exceed expectations.

The advent of 3D building technology offers the buyer a visual opportunity to enjoy a ‘real feel’ of the horse barn with 3D renderings that can be customized to suit any individual’s taste.

Utilizing 3D technology, buying decisions can be made in peace and quiet with opinions for all parties involved in the new barn project heard. Conflicts in time schedules for different family members or business partners to weigh in on the topic are negated, and the buying experience is fun and exciting. No more need for dreary drives with tired young children arguing in the back of the car or rushing home to feed the waiting horses or pets. No more need for missed rides or income earning lesson opportunities. No more need for barn buying decisions made blind with the only visualization of the final barn on paper or in the mind’s eye of one person.

Another useful tool that offers great insight into the ‘feel’ of a horse barn are virtual tours. Once you have taken a few virtual tours of different styles of barns, you may find yourself rethinking the design of barn you want. For example, a virtual horse barn tour of a high profile barn that is 36’ x 26’ may perfectly fit your present needs, but if you take a virtual tour of a low profile 36’ x 24’ barn you may find that for much less spend you would be very happy and a compromise could make the difference in buying now and having your horse home now. Especially as low profile barns can commonly be purchased straight off the sales lot and can be delivered right away, saving you livery expenses.

Yes, everyone is aware that construction company websites commonly offer a myriad of photo galleys and embedded video promotions of their business profile and building upgrade features. Keen resources exist online to answer general questions on barn building experiences and offer suggestions. Great options and a grand place to start.

However, if the ultimate choice of a new barn is to meet both their demands in functionality and aesthetic appeal prospective buyers truly need to do a ‘walk-through’ of barn designs and explore a wide world of barn styles, upgrade features, colors and construction methods such as timber frame versus modular.

Thus, in addition to the armchair planning options of sometimes mundane websites and social media promotions, it is wise for the prospective barn purchaser to seek additional methods of ascertaining just what they are buying and how the structure will work for daily use.

Spatial awareness is a huge part of architectural design. How a building is engineered, how it looks up-close, and how different structures will transform the atmosphere in a particular site or environment need not be left to chance.

Details of barn construction are easy to overlook if you are not experienced in the variety of engineering and carpentry applications are available. When you enjoy a virtual tour, you can see what makes one barn construction method different to the next. For example, you may not know what a timber frame barn looks like and what makes it so special, aside from hearing tell of traditional mortise and tenon joinery and how it is the strongest form of joinery carpenters use, even in this modern world. A quick tour of a timber frame barn will show you how the beams look. You will see almost first-hand how aesthetically pleasing the timber frame option actually is, and if you are trying to be sensitive to the historical charter of the property you own the timber frame will certainly fit right in.

Visualization of what the new barn will look like is an important part of the buying equation. It creates confidence in the ultimate decision making and allows flexibility in budget by addressing optional upgrades and changes in size and style without the expense of a ‘work order’ and changes on site.

Buyers should seek a construction company that encompasses a large variety of barn style and feature choices, siding and roofing options plus can deliver on the smaller details such as copper weathervanes and European stall fronts and any other facets of individualization that will make the barn unique. The 3D technology should offer measurements, good quality video resolution, and be easy to navigate and the Project Team Manager at the company should be fluent in making all adjustments to the program to accurately showcase changes and requests of the buyer.

The opportunity to save the drive and use 3D building technology to ‘build the barn’ from layout to loft heights, siding to stall size, color to cupolas and everything in-between is not to be missed. It is a great way to take control of the new barn building project and eliminate any unhappy surprises.

Horse Owners’ Hacks ~ How to Cash In on Spring Cleaning

Make Your Motto: “Curate Don’t Collate”

Guilty as charged! As a veteran horse owner, I am guilty of being a hoarder of equine tack and paraphernalia, inside the house and inside the barn and even the horse trailer dressing room has invited a permanent storage solution at times.

Just as handbags, jackets and shoes seem to have a magical attraction to many of us gals when shopping, saddle pads, bits, bridles, blankets and breeches also seem to inexplicably find their way home.

I confess that as a lifetime horse crazed person the accumulation of a ‘bit of a boneyard’ when it comes to everything equine-related may have occurred. If you have ever moved ‘farm’ you will likely have realized a similar situation.

Luckily, my hubbie is also an equestrian so the piles of neatly stacked saddle pads hidden in closets, drawers full of bits and spurs and cupboards full of every imaginable color of polo wraps goes for the most part anyway, without comment or complaint.

That ‘extra stall’ in the barn is commonly abused in use as a storage resource that was always planned to be temporary but inevitably becomes a permanent home for a litany of tools and equipment. Stuff that can be placed safely behind a bolted door beyond the reach of inquiring equine noses and pets’ investigations.

Horse stuff isn’t limited to locations in the tack room/office or barn aisleway either, our house is adorned with horse brasses, books and equestrian art, expressive horse themed rugs and even a hunting horn decorates the wall of the mud room. Brasses that require regular time-consuming polishing I might add. But I wouldn’t have it any other way.

As the renowned American interior designer Bunnie Williams would advise, your house should reflect your interests and passions. No problem there where most of us horse loving folks are concerned.

But in interior design and antique collection, there is another edict:

“Curate don’t collate”.

Good thinking. Following along with the interior design theme, to quote the then radical creative 19th Century anti-maximalist William Morris:

The same could be said of the horses’ house.

Stacks of old hay could be sold to a local cow or pig farmer; unused tack trunks and collapsible saddle racks could be removed; aged health care products could be discarded; and more than likely equine tack and equestrian apparel supplies will yield a horde of horsey stuff for sale.

Spring cleaning the barn is a great opportunity to take a hard look at the hoarding habit. Make the decision to stop wasting time all season long sorting through masses of old ‘just in case I get a new horse’ paraphernalia, cleaning leather tack that you will likely never use again and turn unused ‘stuff’ into hard cash that could be productively used for further horsey pursuits.

Proceeds from the sale of ‘stuff’ could fund the fees for a show or clinic event, pay for your daily use saddle to be restuffed or refitted to properly fit your horse or even buy a new run-in shed.

Here are some thoughts to help inspire your barn and stable cleaning and a few hacks to help the process along:

Don’t Clean Old Tack Before Selling

It goes against every rule of horsemanship to leave tack dirty. Weird as it might seem, buyers often prefer to ‘recover’ items to their previously pristine condition rather than purchase them looking ‘as new.’ Antique buyers are commonly similarly afflicted with the notion that they have made a ‘find’ if the object of their attention is in ‘weathered’ condition.

 

Regarding equestrian clothing, you would expect that unwashed clothes, stained shirts or bleach marked breeches would be unloved. In the ‘second-hand’ market of recycling, the usual marketing techniques for presentation simply don’t seem to apply. All manner of wrinkled, unkempt apparel items appear across Facebook Marketplace and similar venues and sell well.

For some of us the notion of presenting any uncleaned item or one in poor condition is understandably abhorrent. The best rule is to consider where the item is being marketed and the target audience of the product.

The Perfect Price

There is no such thing as the perfect price. You will know if the price is right however, because the product will sell. The dynamics of the free marketplace do not lie.

Many of us become emotionally attached to a late horse’s bridle or equipment, or a horsey gift that a beloved relative bestowed upon us. This often translates into asking an unrealistic price for the object. Options such as donating rather than selling the item can make us feel better and even taking a photo to remember the item can help alleviate the angst we feel at parting with it.

The reality is, that Arts and Crafts designer Morris’ advice holds true throughout our curation of horse tack, tools and equine and equestrian apparel.

A great example is the saddle pad collection. Over time technology has changed the saddle pad from a simple piece of cloth designed to keep the underside of the saddle clean to fabrics with special features such as anti-sweat, compression and shock resistant components and a myriad of other improvements. Through increased attention and knowledge of equine anatomy and saddle fit for both horse and rider, the design and purpose of the saddle pad has evolved.

 

While natural sheepskin and other ‘older’ favorites such as 100% cotton, may still be preferred by the die-hard traditionalists, and bright colors and bling be dismissed from the wardrobe of the more reserved horse person, the likelihood is that many of the saddle pads stashed in the stable yard go unused and are unlikely to feel the warmth of your horse’s back again.

Remember, the perfect price is the one that someone will pay for the item.

Expect to discount the price especially if the item does not sell quickly. Just as retailers offer markdowns as time progresses and the products sit unsold, it is smart to discount the pricing to save your valuable time and effort relisting.

Curating the stack of saddle pads into those you really use and selling off those that you don’t is more than a good fiscal idea. A good clean out is good for the brain.

The Positive Power of De-Cluttering

Cashing in on barn cleaning is about much more than money. It is scientifically proven that keeping things clean and your space organized is good for you. Not just in the physical sense of less to clean or trip over in the aisle, but in the sense of mental well-being.

The less ‘stuff’ you have impeding your visual cortex the more organized you will feel. This does not mean it’s a grand idea to just ‘stuff the stuff’ away in a cupboard. You know it’s there and its presence makes finding something you need more time consuming.

Humans feel more rested and more in harmony with their surroundings when the environment is clean and organized. I’m not sure what our horses think on the stable cleaning subject but I do know that when we are happier so are they.

Don’t Get Taken For A Ride

Scammers and con artists abound. Use common sense when marketing your horsey stuff for sale. If an offer sounds too good to be true it probably is and it is essential you do your due diligence and are aware of the common scams that are present, especially online.

Offering to overpay for an item or seeking private information are two of many scams. Here is a great article on the topic.

How to Create the Perfect Backyard Staycation

As summer approaches, many people are starting to make their summer vacation arrangements. However, in the meantime, instead of daydreaming about how your vacation will be, you could have an early one right at home. How – you may ask? Well, we can tell you how to create the perfect backyard staycation. We have some fantastic ideas that we would like to share with you in this article. Furthermore, you may pick which structures are the best match based on your outdoor lifestyle and have your own backyard oasis. So, let us see how you can come up with the perfect backyard staycation ideas for you and your dogs.

Install a pool.

A great way to spend time outdoors, especially when it gets warmer, is by the pool. Furthermore, owning a pool does not require spending a large amount of money. On the contrary, you can have an inflatable pool or a stock tank. Even if you can’t swim as you would in a large pool, you can still enjoy spending time in the refreshing water.

At the same time, if you already have a pool, you can upgrade it. You can add a covered area near it, such as a lovely pergola, and furnish it with seating selections. With a few seats or wooden benches and a coffee table, you will have the ideal spot for socializing with guests. For staying in the water, you can have some pool floats. You can read a book or float on them while sipping your favorite cocktail. Now, that is what we call a fantastic backyard staycation.

Assemble an outdoor kitchen.

During hot days and evenings, everyone prefers to spend more time outside. And the best part is that you can do almost all of the activities in your backyard, including cooking. All you need to do is to set up a summer kitchen. Set up a dining space, bring out a grill and a cooler, and you are ready to go. If you want a kitchen that you can use all year, get kitchen countertops with a built-in refrigerator and a gas grill. In addition, you can make the kitchen area even more delightful with a bar. It will be the ideal setting for you to showcase your bartending abilities to your family and friends. Simply ensure that these constructions are sheltered from the elements and place them under a gazebo. That way, you will still be able to spend quality time outside, even if it’s a rainy day.

Create a relaxation corner.

One of the reasons we go on vacation is to disconnect and relax. However, until you can go on that vacation, improvising something at home can work. For instance, you can create the perfect relaxing staycation right in your backyard. Find a peaceful corner of the yard and convert it into a relaxing oasis. To transform your backyard, place a hammock between two trees, build a small water fountain, plant some grass and flowers around it and create a beautiful space for leisure. You can even bring out a speaker and play relaxing or meditation music. Also, if you practice yoga, this will be the perfect spot to get in touch with the elements. Exercising on the grass near a fountain will bring you joy and inner peace. This corner might even become your favorite place in your backyard.

Hammock between two trees.
A hammock can be a great addition to your backyard staycation.

Put your deck to use.

If you don’t want to make changes to your yard or don’t have the space, but you do have a deck, put it to use. Decks can be transformed into spaces for relaxation, socializing, or dining. Based on what use you want to assign it, choose the right outdoor furniture and accessories, and get creative with the design. A swing or a rocking chair, a small bookcase, and a table, for example, can be used to create a reading corner. If you often host game nights, you can put together a table with enough chairs and a trunk that can serve as storage space for your favorite board games. Also, during chillier evenings, you can bring out pillows and blankets and make the place cozy and comfortable. All your guests will be delighted to spend time outdoors in such an inviting space.

Make the backyard fun for the whole family.

If you have children, you take them with you on vacation. But if you aren’t leaving your home for that vacation, you can bring it to them in your backyard. After all, your entire family could benefit from a staycation now and again. As a result, make a play space for your kids in your yard. You can set up a swing, make a sandbox, build a treehouse, or a playhouse. In addition, if your kids like spending time in the water, you can set up an inflatable pool or a lawn water slide. Just imagine all the fun your kids will have every day.

At the same time, we mustn’t forget about the other members of our family that could also use the outdoor space of their own. Our pets need pampering every now and then, and an outdoor kennel can be just what they need. A kennel can be a peaceful, comfortable, and shady area where dogs can stay cool on hot days. Just make sure that you choose the right size for your pet’s kennel, and he will have the perfect place of his own.

Use light to dictate the atmosphere.

To create the perfect backyard staycation, you also need to think about summer evenings and nights. Spending time outdoors on a pleasant evening can be a great way to relax after a long hot day. So, why not use lights to make your backyard that much more enjoyable in the evenings? You can use hanging lights for the trees, fairy lights on the poles of the wooden structures, and solar lamps by the walkways. That way, you will have enough light to see and do activities in the backyard at night. Additionally, consider adjustable lighting to control the brightness or hue of the lights and create different atmospheres. And if you want to create a more intimate and inviting ambiance, go with candles.

Gazebo with seats and lights.
A well-lighted gazebo can be a wonderful place to spend time during your staycation in your backyard.

Final words

As you can see, you can easily create the setting for the perfect backyard staycation. All you need is a vision for your backyard and lots of creativity. But if you lack inspiration, try putting some of our ideas into practice.

Images used: https://unsplash.com/photos/s8ebg13PGIM

6 Easy Spring Cleaning Tips For Your Outdoor Kennel

Image Courtesy of Pixabay

Spring is the perfect time to reorganize, clean and refresh your home while getting rid of the dust and clutter that tends to accumulate over the winter.  However, spring cleaning doesn’t just have to be for your home, it can also be for your dog’s home as well.

There is no better time than the spring to get in and deep clean your dog’s outdoor kennel. Whether you have a single dog in your home’s kennel, or operate a commercial kennel, keeping a clean space is of the utmost importance.

Here are our top 6 easy quick and clean kennel spring cleaning tips that can keep your pet’s home clean, sanitary and healthy for your dogs.

1. Start With a Deep Clean

If you really want to deep clean your dog’s outdoor kennel for spring, the first thing you should do is to get everything out of their kennel. This means everything. Cots, supplies, extra leashes, beds. Take each individual item out and clean it. Sometimes, when it comes to dog kennels, owners only pay attention to the big areas.

However, small items, sleeping surfaces and other products in the kennel can get dirty, hold bacteria and smells or they may become unsafe. Plus, when you remove everything from the kennel, it makes it much easier to hose down these spaces.

Once you have everything out of the kennel, you also have the opportunity to check your space for cracks, chipped paint or any other small repairs you may need to make.

Images Courtesy of Pixabay

2. Organize and Your Dog Supplies

Everything out of the kennel? This not only makes it a great time to clean all of these items, but it also gives you the opportunity to clean our and organize everything that is in your kennel. Whether you are storing leashes, food, grooming supplies, or anything in between—this is a great time to reorganize everything in the kennel.

This will help you take inventory of what you have (or don’t have) in your kennel so you can keep this outdoor space well-organized and as functional as possible.

 

3. Check Your Concrete

A lot of kennels are placed on or around concrete slabs. When you are cleaning your kennel, make sure to inspect any of the concrete that may be around your kennel. Damage from freeze-thaw cycles can cause concrete to expand and eventually crack. If you use salt to melt ice around the concrete, it can also attract water and cause cracks.

If you have a lot of cracks in any cement around your kennel, it can actually be an open invitation for insect and rodent problems. This is why it is so important to repair cracks in any cement around your kennel.

Just use a scraper to put epoxy in any damaged areas and seal up holes and cracks which will prevent additional damage.

 

4. Disinfect Thoroughly

Real cleaning isn’t just about sweeping out dust, debris and dog hair. It is also about disinfecting your kennel space so it stays safe and healthy for dogs. Organic materials such as soil and urine can actually decrease the effectiveness of many products, so it is important to use the right cleaning product.

Bleach is an effective disinfectant, but make sure to not overdo it. The best cleaning agent will be a diluted bleach (1 cup of bleach per 5 gallons of water). However, once you use this mixture to clean your dog’s kennel, make sure to rinse completely with water This is because bleach can be corrosive to your dog’s skin and paw pads.

5. Double Check Your Dog Doors

The dog doors on your kennel are an important part of your structure. However, because they get a lot of use, dog doors tend to show wear and tear. A lot of dog doors aren’t chew-proof or resilient.

Check on your dog doors, make sure there aren’t cracks or gaps that could injure your dog. While you are checking these doors, make sure that you are using a disinfectant spray to keep the doors super clean—it will only help them stay sanitary and last even longer.

Of course, this is also why we offer upgraded dog doors with stainless steel edging that can withstand the efforts of even the most aggressive chewers.

 

6. Check Your Grooming Tubs and Sinks

 If you have an upgraded kennel with a grooming tub or sink, make sure to pay close attention to this area. Grooming is such an important component of housing multiple dogs, which is why we have this upgrade available for our commercial kennels.

Check the piping and the faucet and under the tub to make sure that there are no leaks that need to be repaired. Leave the water running to make sure that there isn’t so much dog hair in the drain that it has created a clog. This way you will know if you need to snake the drain or call a plumber so it doesn’t cause a more serious issue.

After giving your sink or tub a good deep clean, use caulking to seal the edges of your tub to keep it in tip-top shape.

Here at Horizon Structures, we know that there is a lot that goes into cleaning your dog’s kennel, but that it all starts with the right structure. This is why we have created kennels made with premium materials designed with easy cleaning in mind. We know that in addition to having a functional kennel, a clean and sanitary structure is just as important.

We hope you keep these cleaning tips in mind so you can continue to keep your dog’s home the safe and healthy space it was designed to be.

Tips for Kennels and Caring for a Reactive Dog

Caring for a reactive dog can be very challenging. Some reactive dogs are all bark and no bite. Others may really be aggressive and seek to cause damage. Sometimes you’re not sure whether a dog that is behaving aggressively really would cause any harm or not.

Regardless, special care is needed to keep these dogs safe and to protect others from them. Kenneling can be a great solution for reactive dogs, but it’s essential that it’s done appropriately.

Here are some tips to help you kennel your reactive dog safely and keep them happy.

 

Why Might You Want to Kennel a Reactive Dog?

Reactive dogs are often frustrated dogs. In this case, it may seem that kenneling will only worsen rather than improve the situation.

However, when done properly, kenneling can be a valuable tool for improving a reactive dog’s reactivity and keeping them safe. Here are some times when kenneling is essential to caring for the reactive dog:

  • Protect service people or guests. Your reactive dog may do just fine with your family, but they may be very reactive to strangers. Kenneling is a way to safely get your dog out of the house and protect them from the stress of being around strangers and protect your guests from a potentially aggressive dog.
  • Crate and rotate. Sometimes, two dogs that previously got along very well suddenly become intensely aggressive with one another. When families are unwilling to part with either dog, crate and rotate may be the solution. A kennel is a perfect way to keep both dogs safe and comfortable during alone time and alternate giving them time with the family.
  • For training. Sometimes, a reactive dog can’t be trusted with the family until they have been trained. This may be true of severely resource guarding dogs or dogs with unpredictable aggression. A dog kennel for reactive dogs is a safe place for them to relax and have their food or toys where you won’t have to worry about stumbling into their space and causing an aggressive episode.

 

Place the Kennel in a Private Location if Your Dog is Reactive to People

A reactive dog’s behavior may worsen if they are constantly exposed to stimuli that cause a reactive response. If your reactive dog’s kennel is near a path or driveway, close to a road, or somewhere that they are constantly exposed to gardeners, service people, etc, they may constantly be triggered and feel the need to respond.

The person who is triggering the aggression will typically go away after being barked at, either because they are frightened away by your dog or because they simply go away in the course of their own business.

This reinforces to your dog that barking and behaving aggressively caused the person to leave, which makes it much more likely that they will bark and behave aggressively again. Furthermore, being unable to reach the target of their reactivity can be very frustrating for dogs, which can cause the behavior to intensify over time.

Kenneling your reactive dog somewhere that they will frequently be triggered by people nearby can cause reactivity to get worse or cause reactivity to turn into real aggression. Try positioning the dog kennel for reactive dogs behind a privacy hedge, in the back of your property where people are unlikely to go, or use landscape fabric or another type of privacy shield to keep your dog from seeing people near the kennel.

 

Keep Dog Reactive Dogs from Seeing One Another

Place reactive dog’s kennels back to back instead of side by side. If a dog reactive dog is kenneled in such a way that they can see the other dog in its kennel all the time, it will constantly be triggered and frustrated, causing a lot of stress and elevating aggression.

It is sometimes thought that by allowing dogs to see each other, the aggression will be reduced over time, but this is very rarely the case. In fact, when people want dogs to be aggressive to each other, such as in the case of illegal dog-fighting, dogs are typically chained up just out of reach of one another. Over time, the frustration of not being able to get to the other dog escalates aggression.

Even dogs that are not initially aggressive towards other dogs may become so if kept just out of reach of one another.

If you have two kennels, you can place them back to back so that you can conveniently tend to both dogs without them being able to see each other or sharing a fence.

If you have a dog that is reactive to another dog on your property, you may “crate and rotate” so as to give both dogs time out of their kennel to run and play safely. A kennel can be a great tool for such a lifestyle since it gives dogs plenty of room to stretch out and be comfortable when they’re contained.

However, it’s essential that the dog who is loose isn’t allowed to antagonize the dog who is in the kennel. Dogs can cause an astounding amount of damage to one another through a fence, so don’t count on the fence keeping your dogs separated if they would like to fight.

Furthermore, allowing one dog to approach a kenneled dog will be very frustrating for the dog in the kennel, which can make aggression worse. The best solution for this situation may be to keep the dog who is in their kennel in the interior portion, where the loose dog can’t approach.

This is the perfect time to give your dog a chew toy or a stuffed food distributing toy to occupy them in the interior portion of the kennel until the other dog is put up or in the house.

 

Try a White Noise Machine or Music

Dogs have extremely good hearing. You may find that your reactive dog is triggered by even the slightest sounds from the road, a neighbor’s property, etc. If your dog is heavily triggered by the sounds of people or other dogs nearby, it can be helpful for some dogs to have white noise playing in their kennels.

A white noise machine isn’t expensive, but it can make a big difference in reducing reactivity in your sound-reactive dog. It is certainly still possible that your dog will hear sounds they react to over the sound of the white noise, but for many dogs, it can be surprising how big of a difference using white noise can make.

Some dogs seem to be soothed by music, so this is also an option to experiment with to see if it will reduce the level of reactivity.

Design the Kennel to Avoid Contact with Dogs that are Reactive to People

If you have somebody who takes care of your dog who your dog is reactive to, it is essential that the kennel can be thoroughly cleaned and food and water supplied while avoiding contact with the dog.

Perhaps you have a dog that resource guards or is unpredictably aggressive that you are working with. Maybe you can interact just fine with a dog but someone else in your family triggers aggression.

Whatever the case may be, it is important to be able to provide care without contact if necessary. Choose a kennel with a guillotine-style door so that the dog can be locked in the inside or outside portion so that the other part of the kennel can be cleaned safely.

Food and water dishes that can be accessed from the outside and slipped into a designated door enable you to care for your dog without risking a bite as you set a food or water bowl in the kennel.

Double Doors for Dogs That Need to be Contained on Leash or Have Barrier Aggression

Often, a reactive dog needs to be handled in a particular way. Perhaps a muzzle needs to be put on before you go on a walk or you need to attach both a collar and a harness to be absolutely certain that your dog won’t escape from your control and hurt somebody on a walk.

In such cases, it’s a good idea to choose a kennel that has a two-door setup so that you don’t have to worry about your dog pushing past you and getting out of your control. You can go into the kennel space, close the outside door, and then let your dog out of their kennel.

This way, you can safely get your dog geared up for their walk without worrying that they will shove past you and cause a problem.

This is also a great solution for dogs that have barrier aggression. These dogs may behave aggressively if you try to approach them directly in their kennel, but may be fine if allowed into a neutral space with you.

Eliminating the moment when the door must be opened and the dog handled allows the dog to come out of the kennel in their own time, interact freely with you in the neutral space, and be calm and easy to handle when you are ready to put on their leash or other equipment.

Choose a Very Secure Kennel

It may go without saying that it’s extremely important that your kennel doesn’t fail when you have a reactive dog. The last thing that you want is a dog that is out of control to break through the fencing, cause a door to open, or otherwise get loose.

The kennel you choose should have secure locking mechanisms on the doors that your dog won’t be able to figure out how to open. Flooring should be chew resistant so your dog won’t be able to chew or dig a hole out.

Fencing should go all the way up to the roof of the kennel to prevent a dog from climbing or jumping out. Chain link is fine for many dogs, but for very powerful or persistent chewers, it may be better to choose welded wire to make absolutely certain that your dog won’t be able to break loose.

Use a Kennel to Your Advantage for Your Reactive Dog

A kennel can be an amazing way to train a reactive dog and keep them safe and happy. However, careful planning and management is essential to kennel the reactive dog safely and effectively. By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll set yourself and your reactive dog up for success.

 

A Homesteaders Guide to Monetizing a Hobby Farm

Image via Pexels

Many people dream of living off the land. If you’re a homesteader with as little as one acre, monetizing your hobby farm is an achievable goal. “Homesteader” generally refers to someone who farms their land to live self-sufficiently, while hobby farming is often viewed as a recreational activity, but the fact is that homesteaders and hobby farmers exist on the same blended spectrum. Wherever you fall on that spectrum, with branding, marketing, and careful management, your homestead can become a profitable business, thanks to this homesteader’s guide to hobby farming for profit from Horizon Structures.

Branding Your Hobby Farm

Regardless of the scale of your farming operation, branding is a critical part of building a successful business. Branding differentiates the products and services you provide from those provided by your competitors. Your brand image plays an important role in your ability to set premium prices for your products and inspires loyalty when it resonates with your customers.

There are four main tools businesses use to build their brand image.

  • Logo. This is the biggest identifier for any brand, and it represents the personality of your business.
  • Slogan. Short messaging statements communicate the mission and features of your hobby farm.
  • Colors. Color schemes evoke emotions and influence customer perceptions of your brand.
  • People. The mannerisms and behaviors of anyone who represents your business have an impact on how your brand is viewed.

Marketing and Running Your Hobby Farm

Marketing covers not only promoting your farm-raised products but also conducting market research. The marketing process begins by researching what other farm businesses are doing in your local community and seeking to understand the buying habits of your target customers. Ask yourself which farm products are in high demand in your area and which products are in oversupply. Then choose your product offerings accordingly.

The next marketing step is to set a price point that is appropriate to the quality of your products and provides a sustainable profit margin for your business to thrive. Then you can start working on promotional strategies. The most cost-effective promotional channels are social media, blogging, and email marketing. Your business can maintain a website or social media page through which you can tell the story of your hobby farm business, post updates, and advertise your products. Other options for promoting your business include in-person marketing and paid advertising.

In terms of day-to-day operations, you can streamline your business and save yourself lots of time by taking advantage of high quality pre-made structures – and Horizon Structures can get you set up with everything from chicken coops to greenhouses.

Last but not least, consider adding custom labels as part of your brand. Luckily, you can use this free online label maker to keep everything clearly marked and avoid confusion down the road.

Managing Your Hobby Farm

If you’re looking to add more fresh air to your life while doing what you love, hobby farming for profit is the way to go. Every homesteader’s hobby farm business is unique but they all require careful management and planning. Building collaborative relationships with other farm businesses can help you learn from their successes and mistakes, as well.