Mud – it’s one of the largest problems facing free range stablers. You want to provide your horses with plenty of natural outdoor exercise. But as space for this is generally limited, overuse can quickly turn your paddock into a muddy wasteland.

As neither the horses nor their owners enjoy having to squelch their way across the entire area, you will have to install footings in some places. Books on mud management generally describe how to install an elaborate three-course-footing, which tends to be too costly for most people. The internet offers a wealth of creative suggestions, but it can be difficult to tell in advance how feasible some of them are.

Which is why this book offers a fundamental overview of different methods of mud management, as well as construction materials and dividing courses that can be used.

It explains how to assess your own soil in order to be able choose the most suitable footing. Experts on hoof care have also contributed a detailed look at consequences for hoof health and the book also presents ten examples of successful mud management strategies, including a breakdown of the respective costs.