water for pot belly

Question
I was wondering what is the best/safest way to keep the water from freezing this winter - I have chipped ice for the past 3 years!  My pot belly shares his quarters with 2 sheep.  Thank you!  

Answer
If temps don't drop too far below freezing for extended periods, running water will not freeze. It doesn't have to be a rushing flood, just enough to keep the water moving, like a steady drip, will work.

The safest, surest option is a water heater designed specifically for livestock used in a rubber or plastic tank. Electric and solar power versions are available. Small heaters cost under $50, and that should be fine for 3 animals. Heated water bowls for smaller pets like dogs and cats are available, too, but these will probably be too small.

Jefferslivestock.com and valleyvet.com are two sources I recommend, both are long established companies with great customer service. I've seen used heaters on Amazon and Ebay, but water + electricity = danger, so I would stick with new.

Be sure to use a plastic or rubber tank. Metal conducts electricity, and if something goes wrong with the heater, a metal tank will deliver a nasty shock. It may also cause a blown fuse or circuit breaker.