Hang the bag by the strings that are attached to the upper corners.  If you horse wears shoes you want to put it up higher.  Do not secure the bottom of the bag as this gives the horse leverage to pull against the net and may cause premature tearing. 

We find it easiest to leave the bag hanging and bring the grass to it via wheelbarrow to fill. 

Once filled, use the Freedom Feeder clips provided to secure the flap shut by folding it over the top and to the back as far as possible, facing the clip towards the hay to prevent any lips from catching on the clip. Click on image to view how-to video


Remember, it is best to have at least one more bag than horses or you will find yourself filling more often than necessary.  Also as the alpha comes to eat everyone just shifts to another station, no problem. 

To transition your horse to Freedom Feeding, start by using the bag as a supplemental feeder filled with forage in addition to the horse's normal ration.  This will keep your horse from being frustrated while learning to use the hay net.  Never let the nets to empty.  As your horse learns to use the Freedom Feeder, reduce the amount of feed on the ground or in their old feeder.  Over time, your horse will prefer grazing from the bag.

At first they will EAT, EAT, EAT, but usually within a month even the most aggressive eaters slow down.   Part of it is mental, as they have to learn and trust that they will never have to worry when they will be fed again.   At first, some horses may bloat, but once they've built that trust and are satiated they'll start walking away, the food consumption balances out and so do their tummies. 

It is also suggested that while transitioning your horse to any free feed program that you incorporate a round of psyllium, digestive aid and probiotics to help the system adjust to having more food. AS ALWAYS provide lost of clean water closely available to encourage the horses to drink.



Tip:  If you find that your horse flips the hay net over the fence, make a loop approximately 12" long with bailing twine and attach it from the reinforced side of the bag to the fence.  This will allow the bag to pull away from the fence but not be thrown over.