Could Your Horse Benefit from A Solarium?

This might sound like a strange question! After all, your horse is unlikely to be seeking a sun tan. But before you dismiss the idea, read on!

Equine solariums are becoming more common and are versatile additions to any facility. Horses stand in the warm environment for up to an hour and no shades are required! But what are the
benefits of a solarium?

Before and After Exercise

Horses can warm up before exercise by standing in a solarium. Warming up before vigorous exercise is essential and minimises the incidence of injuries. But in a competition yard it can be difficult to warm up so many horses at the required time. A solarium then comes into its own! The solarium can also be used to get a little heat into the muscles to break down lactic acid after exercise. This prevents stiffness in the back and legs.

Recovering from Injury

The radiant heat energy from a solarium penetrates the skin into the underlying muscle tissue and helps stimulate blood circulation. This improves muscle elasticity and so helps a horse helping to recover from injury. Heat also increases metabolic activity in cells. This increased activity causes a rise in oxygen demand locally. Capillary dilation occurs to increase the amount of blood that brings oxygen and nutrients to each area of the body.

Drying Off

An equine solarium can also be used to dry off a horse after washing. This is particularly useful on colder days when they may be prone to catching a chill. So, it isn’t surprising that solariums have become more common in recent years. They are completely safe for the horses who simply relax in the warmth and the units can be simply plugged in to your usual power supply. They may also be powered by wood burning boilers if you prefer to use sustainably produces sources of energy.

Stud Farms

Some solariums offer a more temperate climate and are used by stud farms to trick horses into sensing longer daylight hours as this can encourage mares to come into season.

Safety and Relaxation

Fitted with infrared lamps, the solariums are low glare for your horse’s comfort and create a quiet and peaceful atmosphere. A variety of units are available and all are designed to ensure that the risk of a horse breaking a bulb is minimal. A solarium doesn’t cost the earth and offers a raft of benefits. This comparatively new innovation could be an excellent investment for any yard.