The overall aim is to identify and communicate appropriate solutions to provision of shade and pest insect avoidance for horses under Danish summer conditions. Grazing animals increasingly experience extreme weather conditions and insect nuisance, which can cause discomfort, itching, wounds and lead to diseases and eczema. Just like heat stress, insects can have a negative impact on horse welfare, health and performance. The project will provide important data on the effects of artificial shelters as well as naturally occurring shade.
The project consists of information retrieval on experiences in relation to the use of buildings and natural shade during summer. The first part of the project will result in an inspirational catalogue for horse owners. The second part of the project will result in two scientific articles. The project is relevant for all horse owners with horses on pasture during summer.
The project i financed by Hesteafgiftsfonden and Skibsreder Per Henriksen, R. og Hustrus Fond.
