When it comes to caring for horses, providing reliable shelter is essential for their health and comfort. A quality outdoor horse shelter protects horses from harsh weather conditions, helps reduce stress and supports their natural behaviours.
Protection from the Elements
One of the most essential functions of an outdoor horse shelter is weather protection. Horses may be hardy animals, but prolonged exposure to harsh sun, heavy rain, wind and snow can seriously affect their health. For owners, investing in a sturdy outdoor horse shelter is a proactive step toward promoting equine health and comfort.
Summer
In the summer, sun exposure poses serious risks. Horses can suffer from sunburn, especially those with light-coloured coats or pink skin on their muzzles. More importantly, prolonged heat exposure can lead to heat exhaustion or heatstroke, which may be life-threatening if not addressed promptly.
Over exposure to sunlight also causes skin related issues such as Sarcoids. While these tumours are not directly caused by sunlight, they are aggravated by intense sun exposure. An outdoor shelter will provide horses with shade, protecting their skin in the process.
The British Horse Society, the largest equestrian charity in the UK, have outlined the importance of equine care in hot weather. They state that field shelters provide the ‘best protection from the sun and biting insects’. An outdoor shelter provides crucial shade, helping horses cool down naturally and avoid these heat-related dangers.
Winter
Health-related issues can also arise during the winter months. An outdoor shelter acts as a windbreak and dry zone, helping horses maintain body temperature and preventing issues such as hypothermia or rain scald. Even in milder climates, shelter gives horses the option to escape uncomfortable conditions, something every responsible owner should provide.
One of the main issues horses encounter if not properly secured during wet winter months is Mud Fever. This is a bacterial infection caused by over exposure to wet muddy conditions. The best way to avoid exposure to this bacteria is to provide your horse with dry shelter.
Supporting Hoof and Coat Health
Wet, muddy conditions can lead to serious hoof problems like thrush, abscesses or soft soles. A dry shelter ensures that horses have a space where they can stand on clean, dry footing, reducing the risk of hoof-related health issues.
Meanwhile, sun damage can cause coat bleaching, dry skin and discomfort. A shaded area helps protect the horse’s coat, maintaining its natural oils and shine.
Stables vs Steel Shelter
Horses exhibit healthier behaviours when living outside in comparison to stables. This includes grazing, social interaction and moving around. All of these behaviours contribute to physical and mental well-being.
Stabled horses are confined in one small area – merging their bedroom and bathroom together. Their access to movement is reduced, meaning health related issues such as Colic are increased. This is because impaction is more likely in horses with slower digestion. Respiratory issues are also increased due to dust and lack of fresh air.
Benefits of Outdoor Horse Shelters
At Steel Shelters Direct, we understand the importance of providing high-quality horse shelters that are built to last and designed for functionality. Here’s why our shelters are the preferred choice for many horse owners and equestrian facilities:
- Durability and Strength: Made from steel, our shelters withstand the toughest weather conditions, offering long-term protection.
- Low Maintenance: Unlike wooden structures, steel shelters require minimal upkeep and resist pests, rot and decay.
- Flexibility: Outdoor shelters provide you with the peace of mind that your horse is safe and comfortable if you cannot turn your horse out daily.
- Spacious Design: Our outdoor horse shelters provide ample space, allowing horses to move freely and feel comfortable while protected.
Ready to Protect Your Horse?
Providing a proper horse shelter is more than just offering shade or cover; it’s a crucial component of equine health management. Investing in a durable and well-designed outdoor horse shelter from Steel Shelters Direct means your horses stay healthier, happier and better protected year-round.
Explore our Equine Field Shelters or get a quote today.
