The Badge Archive

Pretend to Muck Out a Stall

Fulfills Step 2 of GSUSA Brownie Pets badge requirements.

Items Needed

  • Shovel or pitchfork
  • Wheelbarrow or bucket for waste
  • Fresh straw, hay, or bedding material
  • (Optional) Gloves – Protects hands from mud and waste while cleaning.
  • (Optional) Broom or rake – Helps sweep up loose debris and leftover bedding.
  • (Optional) Disinfectant or stall deodorizer – Keeps the area fresh and prevents bacteria buildup.
  • (Optional) Water bucket & scrub brush – Cleans food/water containers before refilling.
  • (Optional) Rubber boots – Protects feet from mud and waste while cleaning.

Instructions

  1. Where Do Farm Animals Live?
    • Scouts discuss what farm animals need in their homes to be safe and comfortable.
  2. Why Cleaning Matters:
    • A dirty stall can make animals sick—regular cleaning keeps them healthy.
  3. Learn How to Clean:
    • Watch a kid-friendly video tutorial or invite a guest expert.
    • Demonstrate step-by-step how to muck out a stall.
  4. Practice Cleaning:
    • Scouts take turns using the tools to clean a pretend stall.
    • Remove dirty bedding, add fresh materials, and make the space clean.
  5. Reflect on the Process:
    • Was cleaning easier or harder than expected? Why?
    • Discuss how keeping farm animals’ homes clean helps them feel safe and healthy.

How to Muck Out A Stall

Here’s simple step-by-step guide for mucking out a stall to keep farm animals’ living spaces clean and comfortable:

  1. Remove the Animal
    • Move the animal to a safe area outside the stall.
    • Ensure they have food, water, and a secure space while cleaning.
  2. Clear Out Waste
    • Use a shovel or pitchfork to remove manure and wet bedding.
    • Place waste in a wheelbarrow or muck bucket for disposal.
  3. Sift and Save Clean Bedding
    • Shake out dry bedding to separate it from waste.
    • Push clean bedding to the sides of the stall for reuse.
  4. Sweep and Air Out the Stall
    • Sweep the floor to remove dust and leftover debris.
    • Allow the stall to air out for at least 10–15 minutes if possible.
  5. Add Fresh Bedding
    • Spread new straw, hay, or shavings evenly across the stall.
    • Ensure bedding is dry, soft, and deep enough for comfort.
  6. Replace Water and Feed Buckets
    • Refill clean water and food containers.
    • Check for spills or contamination before placing them back.
  7. Return the Animal to the Stall
    • Ensure the stall is safe, dry, and comfortable before bringing the animal back.
    • Observe their behavior to make sure they settle in well.
Tia Kennard