How To Build The Perfect Shelter For Your Horse: Tips And Essentials

When it comes to looking after your horse, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is providing them with a safe and comfortable shelter. A good shelter protects your horse from harsh weather, keeps them secure, and gives them a peaceful place to rest. Through this guide, you’ll learn what is an ideal shelter for a horse and how you can make one. Also, find out about mobile field shelters that are the perfect choice for your horse home. 

1. Pick The Right Place For The Shelter 

First thing first, you need to find the best place for the shelter. It should be a flat, dry area that doesn’t get waterlogged when it rains. Avoid places that get too muddy, or that can collect standing water. Look for somewhere that’s not too exposed to strong winds but still has good airflow.  

2. Keep Enough Space For Your Horse To Move  

Your horse needs space to feel comfortable and move freely. The shelter should be big enough for them to move around, lie down, and turn quickly. Ideally, you want at least 10 square metres of space for one horse. If you have more than one, make plenty of room for each horse to have their own space without feeling suffocated.  

3. Make It Comfortable Inside 

A good shelter is not just a roof over your horse’s head—it needs to feel safe and comfortable. The floor should be soft enough to avoid pressure on their hooves. Straw or rubber mats are good choices for bedding. The shelter should be well-ventilated to keep it fresh inside. But you also want to ensure it’s not too drafty, especially in winter when your horse will need warmth. Confirm that there are no possibly harmful loose fittings, nails, or sharp edges. 

4. Protect Your Horse From The Weather 

No one can predict the UK weather. So, you need a shelter for your horse that can protect your horse from rain, wind, and sun. Ensure the roof is solid and waterproof. A wooden or corrugated roof can do a good job of keeping your horse dry. If you live in a place where it gets very windy, consider adding a solid wall or some kind of windbreak to protect your horse from the elements. 

In summer, shade is just as important as shelter from the rain. A good roof will provide shade when the sun is too hot. But you also want to ensure the shelter stays airy and doesn’t get stuffy. Horses need cool air and enough space to avoid overheating. 

5. Keep Easy Access With Wide Entrance 

Your horse’s shelter should be easy to enter and exit. The entry must be wide enough to allow your horse to get through without feeling cramped or closed in. It’s also important that the door opens and closes smoothly and securely. If you have multiple horses, wider or double doors might be a better option to avoid accidents or bottlenecks when the horses are coming and going. 

6. Mobile Shelters Can Offer More Flexibility 

If mobility is what you need, a mobile field shelter may be one of the best choices. These can be moved from one point to another in the yard, allowing you to rotate grazing areas or make a weather-sensitive move. Mobile field shelters are simple, no matter if they are used by horses that move frequently or for a limited time when a temporary shelter is needed.  

7. Keep The Shelter In Good Condition 

Once your shelter is built, it’s essential to maintain it. Inspect the roof for leaks and monitor the walls and floor to ensure they remain sturdy. If your shelter is constructed from wood, be vigilant for signs of rot or damage, particularly in damp conditions. Additionally, check the doors and windows frequently to ensure they open and close smoothly. 

Inside the shelter, keep the bedding clean and dry. Horses are sensitive to dirt and moisture, so it’s important to clean the shelter regularly and replace the bedding as necessary. 

8. Safety Should Be Main Priority 

The shelter needs to be secure and safe. Check for sharp edges, loose nails or anything that may risk harming your horse. The construction should be checked periodically in case it has weakened in some areas. Your horse should feel completely safe, so check that nothing stands a chance of falling on them, especially during severe weather.  

Conclusion 

Whether you choose a traditional stable or a mobile field shelter, the most important thing is that it keeps your horse safe and comfortable. 

You can search for available options if you’re looking for mobile field shelters in Wales or anywhere in the UK. They can offer flexibility, comfort, and safety.