ENVIRONMENTAL PRODUCTS

The Walkabout Trail: Convalescence Pathway

Description

The Walkabout Trail was designed for one specific use, that being to aid in the therapeutic recovery exercise program of the equine with acute foot diseases such as laminitis, as well as any other recovery processes that involve the need for forgivable footing. The Walkabout Trail is shaped like that of a hoof with contracted heels if you will; allowing the start and finish to be close together. The length down the each side is from 40 feet to 50 feet, depending on location, with approximately a 20-25 foot curve at the apex or toe, creating a gentle changing of direction that does not create too much stress on any of the distal or proximal ligaments of the limbs. A total area of about 40 feet wide and 60 feet deep is required for optimal execution of the Walkabout Trail, though THT International would be glad to create a design best fitted to your desired location. The trail itself is 4 feet wide boarded off by treated lumber creating a side-walk effect on top of existing ground. After the proper drainage system is placed under ground, (consisting of stone and a layer of fabric) 6 to 8 inches of sand mixed moderately with pea-gravel work together to create a soft, more comfortable exercise trail for the patient. The pea gravel mixed with the sand assists in the smooth dissemination of weight as it takes the same basic shape as the hoof itself and aids in the avoidance of sand packing over time. The trail can be fitted with roll-over tarps and straps to aid in keeping the trail dry in times of bad weather. Keeping moisture out of the sand is paramount to its performance in areas that experience below freezing winter temperatures. Proper raking after each session will help maintain the life of your specially designed Walkabout Trail. THT International will work with your contractor or our own.

The Theory behind the Trail

Aside from the obvious benefits of your horse being able to get his/her casual walk in that greatly aids in circulation for the stall recovering patient, as many times a day as your veterinary practitioner suggests, the trail intrinsically brings along with it other natural benefits. Walking on the trail aids in the strengthening of muscles and tendons by the very nature of the footing. The human leader is on stable, solid ground at all times and can easily maintain the proper pace. The human can speed up or slow down as needed, without any abnormal physical effort, yet the patient will increasingly gain their confidence and balance as they adjust to the subtle changes of speed owing to the effort needed while walking. The trail is also a very well suited low-impact cardiovascular, muscle strengthening trail for the convalescing patient who has other physical incapacities.

Maintenance & Care

The trail for the most part requires only raking of the footing. It is up to the owner or care takers to take advantage of the optional roll-tarp covering which is manually put into place and secured. Common-sense care is essentially all that is required. Over time additional sand may need added in.

Costs

THT International provides the design layout that best suits your property location and site area. Working with the owner or manager and with the contractor, whether supplied by THT where and when available, or supplied by the property owner, THT International will assist in the oversight of the THT Walkabout Trail protocols, design specifics and implementations. Costs of labor and materials varies from place to place, an estimate can be attained by the contractor based on time and conditions, and availability of the products required to develop the trail. THT International charges are also based on time, distance and location. Inquire for initial consultation and firm quote.