How to Safely Tie a Hay Net

1. Loop the drawstring through the bottom ring and draw it back up to the ring or rail to which you are tying the hay net. Pull the bag upwards so the rings on the top and bottom of the net are as close as possible.
2. Knot the drawstring with a quick-release knot around whatever you are tying to the hay net.
3. As the bag empties it will fold in half rather than sag downwards.
4. Hay nets shouldn’t be used for regular feeding. Horses have to eat with their head and neck up, rather than in their natural grazing position.
5. Check hay nets frequently and tie them up if they begin to sag.
6. A safer alternative is a flake bag made of fabric. Make one out of a feed bag for a temporary quick feeding or purchase them pre-made.
7. Learn to tie a quick release or safety knot. Panic snaps attached to the hay bag also work.

• Hay nets shouldn’t be used for regular feeding. Horses have to eat with their head and neck up, rather than in their natural grazing position.
• Check hay nets frequently and tie them up if they begin to sag.
• A safer alternative is a flake bag made of fabric. Make one from a feed bag for a temporary quick feeding or buy a pre-made one.
• Learn to tie a quick release or safety knot or use panic snaps attached to the hay bag.

Other Options

If you are considering purchasing a hay net, consider buying a hay or flake bag instead. They are a bit more expensive but are somewhat safer. They're also easier to tie and fill, especially if you only have large round bales to work with. There is less chance of them sagging and less chance of a horse getting a foot caught in them. Because the hay can't shake through as easily, ​there may be a bit less waste, especially if your horse is the type to toss and push the bag around a lot when it eats.