View of the grass pastures from west side of the property.
Most of the time horses are turned out separately, but sometimes they sneak in a little extra social time at the fence lines.
View of the grass pastures from west side of the property.
Turnout
We have 3 all-weather turnouts and 4 grass pastures. All pastures and paddocks are secured with secured Centaur vinyl fencing with a top wire of electric that are monitored for safety.
We have 2 scheduled turnout times (morning and late afternoon) to make sure that we provide an adequate amount of turnout for all horses at Shade Tree. Our goal is to provide ample amounts of forage and exercise opportunities. We also adapt our day-to-day schedule to turnout in optimal weather conditions.
The 3 all-weather paddocks are used all year round. Horses have access to both hay and water. Hay is located in a nibble net and water is provided in a regularly cleaned water bucket. Paddocks are maintained and groomed to provide safe fencing and quality footing. Manure is also frequently removed.
Shade Tree’s 4 grass pastures are diligently managed to provide quality grass 5 months out of the year. Maintenance includes regular evaluations with spring and fall seeding and fertilizing. Pastures are mowed as needed throughout the growing season. We also remove manure frequently to keep pastures clean and reduce fly/parasite population (this is also paired with a monthly shipment of Fly Predators to further keep flies to a minimum on the property). Water is provided in clean water buckets or troughs in all 4 grass pastures. Hay is also provided in nets in the grass pastures towards the end of the year to help maintain a high forage diet.
Our knowledgeable staff monitors all the horses’ safety and comfort during their turnout time and responds accordingly. We are also prepared and willing to change horses in/out of turnout gear and blankets at any time during the day.
TURNOUT SCHEDULE
8 A.M. - 12/2 P.M. - Morning Turnout Session
3 P.M. - 5:45 P.M. - Evening Turnout Session
*Turnout times adjusted based on weather, time of year, and staff availability.