GILMER, Texas — Temperatures continue to drop outside as we near the incoming Arctic blast of cold air. If you own animals you might want to bring them inside your home, or if you’re a rancher get them comfortable in a barn.
Spirit Run Equine Rescue President Angela Parham said animals that need constant attention like horses can be vulnerable if left out during a hard freeze. She remembers the difficulties she faced when caring for her horses during the 2021 winter storm that lasted for several days.
"Everything froze up," Parham said. "You have to make sure they have a lot of water, because the lack of water in their diet can cause other health issues. It was pretty difficult. It was pretty labor intensive but it was worth it."
Another important way to keep horses warm is through their diet.
"First of all make sure everybody has plenty of hay," Parham said. "It's very important because the as the gut breaks down hay it produces heat. That's how you keep them warm from the inside."
Parham mentioned how it's not just the sudden drop in temperature that could harm horses, but also the wind chill which can add an extra element of difficulty to stay warm.
"Think of it like the temperature and the water freezing in your pipes," Parham said. "Same thing with their body temperatures. They’re not going to drop if you get them out of the wind."
Horses also have a natural way of trying to stay warm and that's by thickening their coats. Parham said that’s what makes them so fluffy during this time of year. Horses who’s coats aren’t thick enough will have a blanket secured on them.
"Whenever we have flash freezes like this, because we literally are drastically dropping, you need to take steps to give them that extra barrier," Parham said. "Some horses are perfectly fine."
SRER is on its seventh year of saving horses and hopes to continue their efforts.
If you want to learn more about their rescue efforts or help you can find more information on their website.