Stables, Yards, Arenas and

BEDDING THE BEDMAX WAY:

FEATURES AND BENEFITS OF BEDMAX SHAVINGS AND LITTLEMAX SHAVINGS

The success of Bedmax shavings is because the vast majority of owners share the same absolute commitment to the health and well-being of their horses, and recognise the value of a topquality, dust-extracted bedding they can trust.

So, what is it that makes Bedmax shavings and Littlemax shavings a cut above the rest? Bedmax Limited proudly became the first equine bedding company to be awarded the new BETA NOPS badge. This accreditation certifies that every stage of the Bedmax production processes are managed proactively to avoid - or minimise - the risk of contamination by NOPS, naturally occurring prohibited substances, which could be harmful to horses. This includes both Bedmax shavings and Littlemax shavings. Bedmax shavings are purpose made large flake shavings made predominantly from pine sourced sustainably in from UK forestry. They are designed with the horse’s health and welfare in mind with the aim of minimising the risks to stabled horses. Dust is the possibly the greatest risk to stabled horses. When inhaled it can impair or seriously damage horses’ respiratory systems. Bedmax worked using research completed by top equine vets to establish the minimum size a dust particle can be before it becomes inhalable. Anything below this threshold is removed during a triple dustextraction process meaning it has one of the lowest levels of dust on the market. It might sound clichéd, but no hoof no horse. Horses’ hooves need firm, resilient support which is provided by the large flakes in Bedmax. Moisture is also key to caring for hooves. If bedding is too dry, it will draw moisture from the hooves causing them to become brittle and crack. Too moist, and it will soften the hooves and make them susceptible to disease. Bedmax is dried to a controlled moisture content to preserve hoof health. Bedmax also provides excellent protection for hocks and other joints which can easily become injured when horses lie down or roll. The combination of large, medium and small flakes in each bale creates layers which provide a secure and protective bed with good cushioning. This encourages horses to lie down which is vital to achieve REM sleep which is imperative for effective rest and recouperation to optimise performance. Hygiene is another factor which makes Bedmax stand out. Maintaining hygiene effectively is crucial, but difficult. Bedmax shavings are made predominantly from fresh pine timber because pine offers unique natural antibacterial action against harmful bacteria and fungi. Shavings are also dried to sterilising temperatures during manufacture to ensure that all bales are free from bacteria and spores. The pine shavings are also effective at combating ammonia which is produced when urea in urine is broken down. Contact can result in damage to the respiratory system and attack the structure of the hoof. The structure of a Bedmax bed manages urine by allowing it to drain through to be absorbed at the base of the bed, in turn protecting horses from exposure. Littlemax is part of the Bedmax family and was introduced in 2010 in response to a demand for smaller, lighter flakes which offer the same benefits that Bedmax is renowned for. It holds almost the same qualities as Bedmax and goes through a very similar manufacturing process to extract dust, maintain hygiene and provide optimum moisture content required to keep hooves happy and healthy. Each bale of Littlemax contains the perfect combination of flake size to ensure it provides maximum support and comfort to protect joints and encourage proper REM sleep. Like Bedmax, this combination of flake sizes allows Littlemax to effectively manage moisture by draining urine to be absorbed at the base of the bed, keeping the surface dry. The biggest difference between the Bedmax and Littlemax is flake size and this is simply down to personal preference.

www.bedmaxshavings.com