shade and shelter

Question
hi i live in north west Florida and i was wondering what is a good shelter for two horses? there is a pasture with tress all around it. but will that be enough shade? here in fl the temperatures get up to100 and the humidity is very high. what kind of a shelter would provide enough shade for in the summer for two horses? thanks

Answer
Hi Melanie,

Thank you for your question.  Since your efforts are to keep your horses cool during hot temperatures, my suggestion for shelter would be slightly different than what I would use for myself...living in a colder climate.  

In your case, I would suggest that you use something that has a cover only, without sides to it.  This will allow for air to move continuously...which will help your horse cool down, as even passive water loss evaporates.  In a colder climate this would not be a good idea as it would be too drafty, but in your case drafty is good.  Metal or dark roofing may be less desirable than the trees themselves as they can create a bit of a greenhouse effect and generate even more heat.

In more arid climates, light sprinkler systems can be useful in cooling horses as they apply a mist that cools the horse when it evaporates.  But in your more humid climate they could lead to excessive moisture, which may lead to skin issues.

I like the idea of tree shade as long as the trees are large enough to create an impermeable canopy.  If the trees are just little and the sun is getting through, they will not be sufficient enough to keep your horses out of the sun.


Hope that helps,
Thanks, Corlena