Need Space For Your Horses? How To Design A Safe And Comfortable Shelter

If you're going to build a run-in shelter for your horses, take steps to get the project done right. Your horses might not spend much time in the shelters. But, when they do, you want to make sure that the surroundings provide a safe and comfortable setting. Here are four steps to take when designing a shelter for your horses. 

Choose the Right Spot

Now that you're designing the run-in shelter for your horse, make sure you choose the right location. You might think that any location on your property will suit the run-in shelter, but that's not the case. There are actually a few things you'll need to consider when choosing the building site for your new horse shelter. First, choose a location that's visible from multiple angles. That way, you can keep an eye on your horses from wherever you are on the property. Second, choose a location that has the right elevation. That way, the shelter won't flood during the rainy season. 

Ensure Adequate Airflow

When it comes to designing a run-in shelter for your horses, it's important that you ensure adequate airflow. Your horses will need plenty of ventilation while they're inside the shelter. One way to ensure adequate airflow is to include at least one window in the shelter. Choosing a three-sided design will also ensure plenty of airflow into the shelter. Adequate airflow will help to keep the ammonia odor under control. It will also help to prevent overheating on hot summer days. 

Protect Against Injuries

If you're in the process of building a run-in shelter for your horse, take steps to ensure the structure will protect your horse against injuries. You might not realize this, but horses can suffer serious injuries if proper safety procedures are not followed during the construction of the run-in shelter. The most important thing you can do is design an entry that will prevent crowding. If the entrance is too big, your horses will try to squeeze through at the same time. Unfortunately, this can lead to injuries. To avoid injuries, design an entry point that will accommodate your horses without the risk of crowding. 

Include Some Amenities

Finally, while you're in the process of designing your run-in horse shelter, don't forget to add some amenities. The first thing you'll want is electrical wiring. That way, you can add lighting to the shelter. Lighting is helpful for checking on your horses after dark. You should also consider adding water lines. That way, you have easy access to running water for the troughs. 

Contact a horse shelter, such as Rarin' To Go Corrals, for more information.