TOPEKA (KSNT) – People and household pets aren’t the only ones trying to stay warm this winter. Farm animals, like horses, are too.
Kansas ranchers will often take steps to keep horses warm when snow and lower temperatures arrive. This includes making sure they have semi-warm drinking water, enough food or providing a wind-break to help them stay dry.
While it’s still cold, one local rancher said that horses actually thrive in this weather.
“They definitely prefer the cooler weather,” said R & D Ranch Owner Sharon Reed. “I think the 25 to 45, 50, 60, that’s pretty ideal for them to play and run around. Now, if they got a brisk north wind of 20 or 30 miles per hour then they’re going to feel the chill just like we do. So, they need to get behind a tree, or behind a solid object where they can get out of the wind and the weather.”
How much snow has fallen across Kansas on Monday?
While Reed said this time of year isn’t typical for animals like horses or calves to give birth, she said if one is born during the winter months, it’s important to watch them closely and bring them in to keep them dry and warm.
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