Are Your Horses Feeling the Heat?
HELP YOUR HORSES KEEP THEIR COOL
This summer has brought sweltering heat waves to many parts of the world. Just like us, horses can be uncomfortable in extreme heat, and it can even be dangerous, especially for older horses and foals.
Quality barn construction and the right amenities can help your horses stay cool when temperatures soar. If you’re getting ready to renovate your horse barn, or build a new one, keep these features in mind:
Ventilation: Your barn’s location and the strategic placement of windows and fans can increase airflow and ensure a cool breeze. Build to take advantage of wind direction, and place door and window openings toward prevailing winds so they can blow through.
Shade: Make sure your horses can find plenty of shade when they’re not in the barn. Trees can be a good source, but their protection is limited at certain times of day. Building a field shelter will give your horses a haven to get out of the hot sun.
Water: To avoid dehydration, provide multiple sources of cool, clean water in and around your horse barn. Keep the water fresh by topping off buckets and troughs regularly. (An automatic waterer can help lighten this load.) We also recommend installing misters in your barn, as well as wash stalls, which make it easy to hose off your horses and help them stay cool. As lifelong horse enthusiasts, B&D Builders specializes in custom luxury barns that keep your horses safe and comfortable year-round. If you’re dreaming of an equestrian barn or arena tailor-made just for you, contact us today.
