Equestrian camera systems

Cameras in the stable

Owning and caring for a horse is a big investment, and there is always a lot of work to do. We organize our lives around the horses to some extent, and end up spending long hours in the stable. Sometimes we don’t realize how big a role our horses play in our lives, but as soon as there is a problem we immediately become aware of just how much we care.

A camera system can reduce some of the work, but more importantly it can help you achieve a greater peace of mind and a stronger connection to your horse.

Different types of camera systems

There are many different types of camera systems on the market today. They vary in features, quality, and price. Modern camera systems feature wireless transmission of video which is preferable in many ways to cameras that require long cables to be drawn. A wireless camera system does not suffer from interference and can be moved easily.

Later model cameras also feature HD quality video. Anyone who has bought a television or camera in recent years can attest to the benefits of HD over older video technology. When buying a surveillance camera system this is doubly true. With higher video quality it is possible to identify details that are otherwise too grainy to make out.

There are two different types of camera systems which find uses in and around the stable.

Fixed camera systems

Fixed cameras are mounted indoors or outdoors. They help you monitor the horses and other critical areas in and around the stable. A quality camera will use wireless transmission so only a power cable is needed, and capture HD-quality video. Other useful features include:

• Adding additional cameras
  A good camera system should allow you to add as many cameras as you want without cumbersome configuration. You can view several cameras on the same screen or in the same application.

• Night-vision
  Stables are not lit 24/7 but you may need to check in at any time of day. A camera with night-vision capability allows you to see just as well night and day.

• Recording
  A camera can help you answer the question “what happened?” But this requires a camera with recording capabilities.

• Motion detection
  Cameras that focus on storage spaces need to be able to register motion. A smart camera can turn on recording and send you an alarm when it registers movement around your saddles or other valuables outside normal hours.

• Connect to the internet
  With a camera that connects wirelessly to the internet you can check on the stable from your smartphone or tablet. It doesn’t matter if you’re in the car, at the dinner table, or on vacation. You will always be connected to your stable and horses.

Transport camera systems

Transport can often be a stressful experience for both the horse and the driver. Transport cameras are mounted inside trailers and gives drivers peace of mind from knowing that they will always spot problems as and when they happen. Just as with fixed cameras, a good transport camera will use wireless transmission and capture HD video. Important features for transport cameras include:

• Night-vision
  For early or late driving, night-vision is an important requirement.

• Adding additional cameras
  Though a second camera is rarely needed, adding an external camera helps with reversing the trailer.

• Dedicated screen
  Transport cameras should come with a dedicated screen mounted inside the vehicle.

“Transporting our horses used to be much more nerve-wracking. Anyone who has ever owned a horse knows that some don’t mind the trailer at all, while others are very nervous. Since we got a camera in our trailer we have been able to reduce stopping to check on the horses, and we always have one eye on the horse and one eye on the road.”- Tania – Swedish warm blood owner

A camera system for every type of stable

In a smaller stable, perhaps one that you alone manage with just one or a few horses, a camera system is a great way to reduce the workload. There are always times when there isn’t any important work to do in the stable, but you still want to check in on your horse. “Checking in” can involve anything from a walk to a long drive. With a camera system it becomes as quick and easy as picking up your smartphone or your tablet.

For larger stables, with paid staff, a camera system is a great service to the horse owners. Modern camera systems allow for installation of an almost unlimited amount of cameras, so it’s easy to put a camera in each box.

Some problems are avoidable, if we catch them soon enough. But it’s not possible to spend all day in the stable. With a camera you can monitor your horse throughout the day.

“Often when there is a problem I tell myself ‘if only I had spotted it right away this could have been avoided’. It’s easy to think like that when something goes wrong with the horses you care for. With a camera system in the stable, and one in the trailer, I now have that ability.”- Daniel – Arabian horse owner

We also store a lot of valuable equipment in our stables, and many stables have a lot of people walking in and out every day. A camera system can help you locate things that have been misplaced, and gives potential thieves second thought before walking off with an expensive saddle or other equipment.

Choosing the right camera

As with any electronic equipment, the quality of your camera system can make the difference between an indispensable tool and an unnecessary expense. A stable is work environment and this requires a rugged camera. Your own impression counts for much when picking a camera. Does it feel robust?

A camera system should be easy to use and easy to install. There is no excuse for complicated cameras these days. Nevertheless, many low-cost camera systems come loaded with outmoded software and thin manuals, and can therefore become an installation nightmare. Pay special attention to the app or software that comes with IP (WiFi) cameras. You will be using that app every time you check the camera, so it had better be good.

Make sure you pick a camera that is rated for outdoor use. This means that the camera should be water-proof with a sufficiently high rating. Look for the ratings IP66 or IP69K when choosing a camera. And make sure to pick a manufacturer that backs its promises with a long warranty period.

Good luck in picking a camera system for your stable!