Field Shelters: Ideal for Providing Shade in the Summer
Field shelters are an essential part of equine management, particularly during the hot summer months. These shelters offer numerous benefits, ensuring the comfort and well-being of horses by providing shade and protection from various weather elements.
Importance of Field Shelters in Summer
Field shelters serve as a crucial respite for horses during the hot summer days. Horses are particularly vulnerable to heat stress and overheating, conditions that can lead to severe health issues. Since horses release heat through sweating, they can struggle to cool down effectively, especially when exerting themselves in high temperatures. Shelters provide a shaded area where horses can retreat from direct sunlight, helping to prevent heatstroke and other heat-related conditions.
Additional Benefits of Field Shelters
Beyond protection from the sun, field shelters offer several other advantages:
- Protection from Weather Elements: Shelters shield horses from rain, wind, and snow, ensuring they remain dry and comfortable during inclement weather.
- Relief from Insects: In the summer, shelters can also provide a haven from biting insects and flies, which are not only a nuisance but can also carry diseases.
- Behavioral Well-being: Horses with access to shelters can exhibit more natural behaviors and less stress, as they can freely move and seek refuge as needed, which is crucial for their mental health.
Types of Field Shelters
There are various types of field shelters, each catering to different needs and preferences:
- Mobile Field Shelters: These are increasingly popular because they do not require planning permission and can be moved around the paddock to optimize the shelter’s position based on weather conditions and ground quality. They are built on skids, allowing for easy relocation to avoid muddy areas and to provide fresh grazing spots.
- Static Field Shelters: Typically more permanent structures, these require planning permission but offer a stable and robust solution. They can be customized with additional features such as feed storage or partitioned areas.
Placement and Design Considerations
When setting up a field shelter, it’s important to consider its placement to maximize its effectiveness:
- Wind Direction: Position the shelter with its back to the prevailing wind to protect horses from gusts and driving rain.
- Elevation: Place the shelter on higher ground to prevent waterlogging and muddy conditions during heavy rains.
- Accessibility: Ensure the shelter is easily accessible for both horses and caretakers, and not positioned too close to fences or gates.
Field shelters are indispensable for maintaining the health and comfort of horses throughout the year, but especially in the summer. By providing shade, protection from weather, and relief from insects, these shelters help ensure that horses remain happy and healthy regardless of the season.
For more detailed guidance on selecting and setting up field shelters, resources such as Woodhouse Timber Buildings offer extensive information and products tailored to equine needs.
