Subdivision 1. Definition. "Equines" are horses, ponies, mules, and
burros.
Subd. 2. Food. Equines must be provided with food of sufficient
quantity and quality to allow for normal growth or the maintenance of body
weight. Feed standards shall be those recommended by the National Research
Council.
Subd. 3. Water. Equines must be provided with clean, potable water in
sufficient quantity to satisfy the animal's needs or supplied by free choice.
Snow or ice is not an adequate water source.
Subd. 4. Shelter. Equines must be provided a minimum of free choice
protection or constructed shelter from direct rays of the sun when temperatures
exceed 95 degrees Fahrenheit, from wind, and from freezing precipitation.
Natural or constructed shelters must be of sufficient size to provide the
necessary protection. Constructed shelters must be structurally sound, free of
injurious matter, maintained in good repair, and ventilated.
Subd. 5. Space and cleanliness requirements. Constructed shelters except
for tie stalls must provide space for the animal to roll with a minimum danger
of being cast. Stalls must be cleaned and kept dry to the extent the animal is
not required to lie or stand in fluids. Bedding must be provided in all stalls,
kept reasonably clean, and periodically changed. The nature of the bedding must
not pose a health hazard to the animal.
Subd. 6. Exercise. Equines must be provided opportunity for periodic
exercise, either through free choice or through a forced work program, unless
exercise is restricted by a licensed veterinarian.
Subd. 7. Hoof care. All equines must have their hooves properly trimmed
periodically to prevent lameness.
Subd. 8. Transportation. A vehicle used to transport an equine must have
a floor capable of supporting the animal's weight safely. Floors must be of
nonskid construction or of nonskid material sufficient to provide the animal
with traction while in transport. A minimum of 12 inches must be allowed between
the withers of the largest equine and the structure above the animal while it is
in a natural standing position. Sturdy partitions must be provided at a minimum
of approximately every ten feet inside the vehicle. Interior compartments of
transporting vehicles must be of smooth construction with no protruding or sharp
objects and must provide ventilation. Food and water must be provided in
sufficient quantities to minimize stress and maintain hydration.
