Shade for Horses: How Field Shelters Keep Horses Cool

How do you provide shade for horses in a field?

If your field has trees, these can provide natural shade during hot weather. If there isn't enough, you can add a field shelter so your horses have somewhere to get out of direct sunlight.

Do horses need shade in summer?

Yes, horses need access to shade during the summer, as well as plenty of fresh water.

Horses can overheat when temperatures stay high for long periods. They can also get sunburn, especially on areas of pink skin around the muzzle and heels.

Make sure your horses can get out of direct sunlight when they need to and check on them regularly on warmer days.

If you're concerned that your horse is struggling with the heat, contact your vet.

Using a field shelter for shade

Unlike a fixed stable or shelter, a mobile field shelter can be moved to different parts of your land as conditions change.

This can be useful if the amount of natural shade in your field changes throughout the year or you want to move the shelter away from ground that's become muddy or worn.

For more information about moving your shelter and planning permission, read our guide to planning rules for mobile stables and field shelters.

Which direction should a field shelter face?

There's no single direction that's right for every field shelter. The best position will depend on your land, the prevailing wind and the time of year.

In summer, think about where the sun falls during the hottest part of the day and position the shelter so it provides plenty of shade. 

During wetter or colder weather, you may want the opening to face away from the prevailing wind and driving rain.

Where should you put a field shelter in summer?

Look at your field at different times of day before deciding where to put your shelter. An area that's shaded in the morning may be in full sun by the afternoon.

Think about where the sun will be during the hottest part of the day and whether nearby trees, hedges or buildings affect how much shade the shelter gets.

Keep your field shelter well ventilated

Shade is important, but your shelter also needs good airflow.

A hot, stuffy shelter isn't going to give your horses much relief on a warm day. Position it somewhere with good airflow to help keep it cooler inside.

Keep the entrance clear and make sure there's enough room for your horses to move in and out easily.

What are the signs that a horse is getting too hot?

Signs that your horse may be struggling with the heat can include:

• Heavy or excessive sweating
• Faster breathing
• Tiredness or weakness
• Reduced interest in food
• Signs of dehydration.

If your horse seems unwell or you're worried about heat exhaustion, contact your vet.

What else do horses need during hot weather?

Make sure your horses always have plenty of fresh water available, and check their water regularly on hot days.

You may also want to ride earlier in the morning or later in the evening when it's cooler, rather than during the hottest part of the day.

If you're worried about how your horse is coping with the heat, speak to your vet.

Choose a Colt mobile field shelter

Colt mobile field shelters give your horses somewhere covered to use throughout the year and can be moved around your field as conditions change.

Our shelters are built from pressure-treated timber and come on strong timber skids, with a heavy-duty chain so you can tow them using a suitable 4x4 or tractor.

They're available in several sizes depending on how many horses need to use the shelter.

Take a look at our mobile field shelters, or get in touch with the Colt Stables team if you'd like help choosing the right size for your horses.