Should I let my horse in the paddock (Fence) at night?

Question

I have a Mustang named Sundancer and she is a great pony and I know she won't escape but she might get stollen or get attack by a animal. Please help.

Answer 1

In my own experience working with horses, our lot have to stay outside because we don't have a stable or anything, but I think it is a great option if available.

They get to run, eat fresh grass, and act like a herd.

Depending on where you live, there is always a chance they could get stolen or attacked. However, you can reduce the chances:

Don't leave her head collar/halter on. If on, it makes it easier for a person to catch her and take her away. Also don't leave twine or rope around the fences or unlocked anywhere, as a thief could potentially find and use these to catch your horse.

As for animal attacks, will she be alone? If she is alone, the chance of her getting attacked is higher because if sleeping she would not have a horse on "lookout" and would not get warning. And even if she is put in alone, horses have a powerful kick! A while back a dog was harassing our horses (we think it still is). However the horses are all okay at the moment because most of them are more than happy to kick it away from themselves and others, I'm sure your girl would do the same.

Also, do you have electric fences? These are a good deterrent to animals which may attack your horse. However, even if you don't, as long as the fences are high enough and strong, animals are less like to come in.

So, I think it would be okay for your horse to be in the paddock at night. If you are worried, but want to try, put her in a paddock near a building, then stay in the building either overnight or for a few hours and just keep an eye on her.

Good luck with your decision.

Answer 2

I wouldn't risk it. Let her out in the mornings if you are worried about heat or let her out during the day if you just want to give her a chance to stretch her legs =]

Answer 3

Being a Mustang she can handle the animals

but

being stollen it won't help your pony

Answer 4

Would she be alone?  Do you have any dogs around that make a fuss if an animal or person is around?  I know tongs of places that have night turnout into large fields.  A paddock would be no big deal at all.  It is hard to say, though.  Do you have a problem with horse theives in your area?  Why do you believe that the horse is safer from thieves in the barn?  Is the paddock far away from the barn and/or house?  There are so many factors involved in this that I'd really have to know you and know the place to be able to tell you for sure.

I can tell you though that I am in favor of a horse having as much room to roam as possible.  A paddock with a flake of hay is awesome for night time, so long as there is no history of thievery, predators, etc.

Answer 5

no cuz then itl[;poiu run to africaaa

Answer 6

Yes, your horse will be able to defend its self. just be sure you can catch her in the morning. Do not chase and corner her, lure her back with oats. Hope this helps.

Answer 7

Unless your fears of her being stolen or attacked by an animal are truly well founded, and not just a result of paranoia,then keep her in at night. But if you are just thinking of worst case scenario,  without anything to back up those fears, let her stay out. An open field is much more natural to a horse than a stall is.And as long as there is shelter out there for her, she'll be fine, horses know how to protect themselves when it's necessary. hope that helped = )

Answer 8

Depends on where you live.

Some places yes. I dont think there are to many people stealling horses still, but im not sure on that one so dont count me on it.

If you are very fretful for your horse i would get a watch dog.

We live on the judson bottom road of mankato. There are a few people near us. We have neibors. And we have horses that live tottally outside, and are just fine, and have been for three years. I know my mare would kill me if i stock her inside! lol the only time she will go into the barn is to crib. She never has been in a barn alot though.

Answer 9

My horses are turned out at night and in during the day from May through September.  I live in an isolated area and am not worried about anyone stealing them.  I have a long driveway and am behind another 6 acre lot, so you can't even tell I have horses from the little traveled gravel road I live on.  I also don't have any deadly animals around, just your standard nocturnals like racoons, skunks and possums.