The Importance of Feeding High-Quality Hay to Horses at Jayell Ranch Family Adventure Park
At Jayell Ranch Family Adventure Park, our horses are more than just part of the experience—they’re part of our family. Every trail ride, every magical moment with our guests, and every peaceful sunrise over the Smoky Mountains begins with the health and happiness of our equine partners. One of the most important ways we care for our horses is through proper nutrition, and that starts with feeding only the highest quality hay.
Why High-Quality Hay Matters
Hay is the foundation of a horse’s diet. Unlike many animals, horses are grazing herbivores with digestive systems designed for continuous intake of fibrous plant material. When hay is rich in nutrients and free from dust, mold, or weeds, it supports every aspect of a horse’s health—from their immune system and digestion to their hooves and coat.
At Jayell Ranch Family Adventure Park we have an equine nutritionist and a hay broker who work together to scout the country and source premium hay to ensure our horses receive top-tier nutrition every single day. Our owners along with these specialists attend hay conferences and educational programs regularly to stay informed and updated on top tier equine health. Did you know? Every shipment of hay comes with a batch report (see photo ) and has undergone individualized testing to ensure the highest standards and quality nutrition. Fields undergo ground and soil testing, preparation and studies to ensure growth of the best possible hay. Here’s why that’s so important:
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1. Supports Digestive Health
Horses rely on a delicate balance of beneficial bacteria in their gut. High-quality hay provides the fiber needed to maintain this natural balance, helping prevent colic and ulcers—two common health issues in horses. Quality hay keeps the digestive tract moving smoothly, which is essential for their overall well-being.
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2. Provides Essential Nutrients
Just like athletes need clean fuel, our trail horses need the right nutrients to perform comfortably and consistently. Premium hay contains higher levels of protein, vitamins, and minerals that support muscle tone, energy levels, and immune strength. Better nutrition means happier, stronger horses ready to give guests a safe and enjoyable ride.
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3. Promotes Positive Behavior
A horse with proper nutrition is a calm and content horse. Poor-quality hay can lead to boredom, restlessness, or anxiety. At Jayell Ranch, our horses always have access to nutritious hay, which keeps them satisfied and mentally relaxed—creating the peaceful personalities our guests fall in love with.
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4. Enhances Coat and Hoof Health
One of the first things guests notice is how healthy and beautiful our horses look. That signature shine isn’t just from grooming—it’s from the inside out. Quality hay provides essential nutrients like biotin and omega fatty acids that contribute to strong hooves and glossy coats.
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5. Ensures Long-Term Longevity
Feeding high-quality hay helps prevent many chronic health conditions. It supports joints, maintains healthy weight, and strengthens immunity. Our horses are our partners, and their long-term health allows them to enjoy their work and live happy, fulfilling lives here at the ranch for many years.
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Our Commitment to Excellence
At Jayell Ranch Family Adventure Park, our guests trust us to offer exceptional animal experiences—and that starts with exceptional care. We carefully inspect every bale of hay for freshness, leafiness, and aroma. We require batch reports to ensure high levels of proteins, vitamins, minerals, carbohydrates and more. We avoid any hay that contains dust, mold, or harmful weeds. Only the best is good enough for our horses.
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Happy Horses Make Happy Guests
When you visit Jayell Ranch Family Adventure Park and meet our horses, you’ll see the difference high-quality hay makes. You’ll feel it in their calm demeanor, see it in their bright eyes, and experience it on the trail as they confidently guide you through the foothills.
Our horses carry our guests with care—and we carry them with kindness, respect, and the best nutrition possible.
Because at Jayell Ranch, great adventures start with great care—from the ground to the hayloft.