Shelter in the horse pasture

Now that spring has arrived, we are looking forward to seeing horses grazing in the pasture every day. Although spring and summer are immediately associated with fine weather, horses need more protection against different weather changes during this period in particular. There are wet periods and very hot periods, against which the necessary shelter must be provided. This is usually needed more than during cold winter days.

Why is shelter necessary?

Animals must be given the opportunity to seek shelter when they find it necessary. Some horses will seek shelter more quickly than others. Draught horses and Icelandic horses will seek shelter less quickly than warmbloods. Especially at-risk animals such as pregnant mares, foals and sick animals must have that option. It is not only important to protect against wind and rain, it is also necessary to protect your horse from harmful sun rays. It has already been shown that the general welfare of horses improves remarkably if they can sporadically look for shelter.

What should shelter look like?

• The most important thing is that the closed side is oriented towards the dominant wind direction. An opening to the northeast gives the best result.
• Make sure there is sufficient room so that several animals can shelter at the same time.
• In the case of natural protection, it is best to ensure an alternation between low and high vegetation.
• A good shelter made from solid and sturdy materials does not have to be expensive.
• Always provide plenty of fresh drinking water in every season, because that is just as important as shelter.