Keeping Animals Cool in the Summer Heat

That MidAtlantic humidity is high lately, making it feel like you’re wrapping yourself in a warm wet blanket when you step outside. Despite all the sauna vibes, I have a routine down for the animals to keep them as comfortable as possible. But before we dive into the list, I think it's worth mentioning that choosing the RIGHT animals for your homestead climate is so important for successfully navigating the seasons. Animal breeds vary greatly and some may be better suited to specific weather patterns and climates than others. Clydesdales, for example, are native to a wet region of the world--same as my climate here in New Jersey. Cold hardy duck breeds (like Cayuga) handle our winters better than those suited to warmer regions of the world. Before comfortably comes into play, I think there's a lot to be said for animal breed-homestead compatibility to begin with.

Now, without further ado, here's just a quick bulleted list of the efforts I make to keep everyone comfortable in extreme heat situations here on the farm.


HORSES

• Free in-out access per usual to the stable and shaded grazing areas
• Fans 24/7
• Loads of clean and cool water
• A hose down when needed

THE FLOCK

• The ducks and geese go to the stream by day and head back into the pasture at night.
• If it’s still warm when they get home, they also get a hose down.

THE SHEEP

• The old 1775 barn has a raised foundation that leaves a massive cool alcove below. The sheep have this area enclosed in their barn so they choose to hide away in the cool dirt for the day, returning to pasture by night.
• Should the sheep prefer to be kept out in the pastures by day, there is always a run-in shed in every pasture. This way they can escape the sun and seek shade.

THE LIVESTOCK GUARDIAN DOGS

• The dogs always have the option to come into the air conditioning in the house.
• Each pasture contains a run-in shed for the dogs to get out of the sun.