Horse Gestation

Housing requirements for horses vary drastically by region and may also be affected by state or local laws. It is ideal for horses in cold climates to have some shelter from the elements, particularly snow and wind. Horses tend to be able to deal with low temperatures until they are combined with wet or extremely windy weather. A shelter, even if it is just a naturally occurring windbreak, can then be quite beneficial. Horses in warmer climates, such as the southern states, may not require shelter from the cold but may instead appreciate shelter from the sun, even if it is just a shade cover or tree. Young or senior horses may need more shelter from the elements than a middle-aged horse in good health. As previously mentioned, some areas require at least a three-sided shelter for horses; others specify minimum square footage requirements per animal. We recommend that you research any laws or regulations in your area before deciding on a shelter for your animal. Other things, such as your goals for your animal (such as showing), may also dictate the need for shelter. Typically, from both a respiratory and skeletal health standpoint, horses remain healthier turned out with access to a shelter than those kept primarily in stalls. You can also find more information in the many articles that can be found on Horse Quest under the topic of "facilities".

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