Why Is Shade and Shelter So Important for Horses in Summer?

Why Is Shade and Shelter So Important for Horses in Summer? 

We all love an Australian summer, but while we’re reaching for sunscreen and cold drinks, it is essential that our horses are also cool and comfortable. Long days, high temperatures, intense UV levels, and humidity can quickly place extra strain on horses, especially when shade or shelter isn’t available. 

Horses don’t handle heat as easily as we might assume. Their large body size and limited ability to cool down mean they can heat up quickly when standing in direct sunlight. Without shade, their body temperature can rise rapidly, which initiates sweating, consequently increasing the risk of dehydration, electrolyte loss, and heat stress. Over time, repeated exposure to heat can affect a horse’s appetite, recovery and performance, and place unnecessary stress on their body. Heat stress can unfortunately be a precursor for colic, if left untreated.  

Shade can be natural, but management is key 

Shade helps reduce the amount of direct heat exposure from the sun, lowering heat absorption and assisting them to regulate their body temperature more effectively. Simply having a cool, shaded place to stand or lie down can make a significant difference on hot days. 

Shade can come from natural sources, such as trees, or from man-made options like shelters, stables or shade structures. Good shade options should block direct sunlight, allow airflow and be easily accessible to all horses in the paddock.  

When constructing new paddocks, or shade options, consider factors such as aspect in regard to sunlight direction, particularly from the middle to afternoon phases of the day, where UV and temperature outputs are the highest. A tree may provide shade in the corner of a paddock at 9am, but by 3pm is it still in the same yard, or over the fence? Also take note of distance from water and feed sources, in order to encourage best use of the shelter.  

The Risks of No Shade 

When horses don’t have access to shade or shelter, the risk of heat stress and heat exhaustion increases significantly. Early warning signs can include rapid breathing, flared nostrils, lethargy and reduced feed intake. In severe cases, heat stroke can occur and requires immediate veterinary attention. 

Lack of shade also increases the risk of dehydration. Excessive sweating without adequate cooling leads to fluid and electrolyte losses, which can impact muscle function and recovery. Performance horses, older horses, foals, and horses with darker coats are particularly vulnerable during extreme heat. 

Extended sun exposure can also cause skin damage, including sunburn and photosensitisation, especially in horses with white markings or pink skin. Ongoing heat stress may even worsen existing health issues, such as respiratory or metabolic conditions. 

What can I do? 

Providing consistent access to shade should be a core part of summer horse management. If natural shade is limited, well-designed shelters can make a big difference. Shade works best when combined with other heat-management strategies, such as unlimited access to clean, cool water, appropriate electrolyte supplementation such as Ranvet’s Salkavite, appropriate airflow access and adjusting exercise times to cooler parts of the day. 

By prioritising shade and shelter during hot weather, you’re helping your horse stay cooler, safer and more comfortable. In an Australian summer, shade isn’t a luxury, it’s essential for horse welfare!