Ashley Griffin, University of Kentucky
A healthy horse needs an adequate supply of fresh water of the same quality as is used for human consumption. A mature horse needs 8 to 12 gallons per day. It is difficult to supply this much water by carrying it in pails, especially if several horses are to be watered. The vast majority of horses are hand watered.
Put in-stall watering devices where spillage can be drained directly from the stall. A stop and drain (frost-proof) hydrant or an electrically heated watering bowl will supply fresh water in freezing weather. One electrically heated watering unit can serve two stalls or serve eight to 10 horses in a lot.
Also, insulate outside water tanks to reduce heating costs. Thermostatically-controlled heaters, heat tape and frost proof hydrants will also protect against freezing. To reduce ice build-up, locate a stock tank in a sunny location and protect from northern winds. If the tank freezes over, break the ice daily so the horses can get water as needed. They can not get enough water by eating snow.
