The Journey Behind the HayNest: From Concept to Real-World Testing

Developing a product that truly makes a difference starts with understanding the needs of both horses and their owners. The HayNest was born out of a simple goal: to create a feeding solution that replaces the need for lifting heavy hay nets while reducing wastage and saving time on the yard.

Why Develop the HayNest?

Loose hay piles on the ground, although natural in posture, can lead to wastage, contamination, and faster eating rates that don’t align with a horse’s digestive needs. The HayNest was designed to overcome these problems, combining the practicality of a slow feeder and updating the traditional hay net to:

✅ Extend eating time for better digestive health and reduced boredom✅ Keep hay clean and contained✅ Save owners time, effort, and money on wasted forage

Real-World Testing: Meet Our Product Testers

No product is complete without thorough testing. That’s why we’ve partnered with a fantastic team of equestrians, each bringing unique experiences and horse management insights to ensure the HayNest performs in a variety of settings.

🌟 Meet Rebekah A lifelong equestrian whose passion for horses began at just four years old. Now 32, Rebekah shares her life with three much-loved equine companions:🐴 Harvey, a cheeky New Forest pony she’s owned for 18 years who enjoys gentle hacks around Newstead Abbey, often stopping at the pub or ice cream van.🐴 Rupert Boy, an ex-racehorse she brought home straight off the track as a four-year-old, now her trusted partner in showing and dressage. Rupert is also the Horses for Courses Ambassador for Nottingham Racecourse, proudly showcasing life after racing.🐴 Bunny Boru, the newest addition, who excels in dressage and pleasure rides with exciting plans for show jumping soon.Rebekah is thrilled to be part of the HayNest tester team, looking forward to providing well-rounded, honest feedback from seasoned veterans to rising stars.

🌟 Welcome Lauren and RiverLauren has loved horses her entire life and now enjoys exploring the countryside with River, her eight-year-old ex-racehorse. Always looking for ways to enrich River’s daily routine, Lauren is excited to test the HayNest as a hay net alternative that saves time and effort while promoting healthier feeding.

🌟 Introducing Elaine and CrackerElaine started riding when she was just three years old, but her dream of horse ownership came true at 31 when Cracker entered her life unexpectedly – becoming the best thing ever. Cracker is a gentle giant at 17.2hh and 826kg of pure love. Recently, Elaine also welcomed little Alfie to the family, creating a true ‘little and large’ duo. Elaine is eager to see how the HayNest benefits Cracker’s feeding routine and can’t wait to share their journey with the team.

🌟 Gilliyan and AnouskaAn experienced horsewoman and equine massage therapist, Gilliyan brings years of knowledge to the team. She uses slow feeder nets daily with her gorgeous homebred mare Anouska and is keen to see how the HayNest compares. As the founder of @equitherapyuk, her professional insight is invaluable in assessing how the HayNest supports physical health through natural feeding posture and extended eating time.

Product Development with Purpose

The HayNest was designed not just as a feeding tool, but as a welfare-focused solution backed by research and refined through real-life testing. By collaborating with passionate equestrians like Rebekah, Lauren, Elaine, and Gilliyan, we ensure the HayNest truly supports:

✔️ Horse health and natural behaviour✔️ Owner convenience and practicality✔️ Reduced wastage and long-term cost savings

Looking Ahead

We’re excited to continue sharing updates from our testers as they integrate the HayNest into their daily routines. Their feedback will guide future innovations, ensuring every product we develop supports our mission: to enhance the health, wellbeing, and happiness of horses while making life easier for the people who care for them.

Stay tuned for their experiences, tips, and honest reviews coming soon.