Barn ventilation??

[willowgem]

In my research, I've read so much about how important barn ventilation is.
I'm not sure if what I have is sufficient for my two ND goats, who will be arriving in two weeks.
I want to be prepared so I'm not dealing with sick goats six months from now.

What I have right now is a 10x10 shed/barn, which I will be locking them in at night. My husband installed two slider windows, which will be kept open in the spring, summer and fall...we took out the screens and have covered the windows with welded wire fencing to keep the predators out.
My worry is for the winter, should we leave the windows open a crack, or will that be too drafty for the goats?
If leaving the windows open in the winter isn't the best option, would it be a good idea to install a couple vents near the roof area?

BTW, I live in Michigan, so it can get pretty cold here in the winter months.

 

[SheepGirl]

I would leave the windows open in the winter as well.

 

[bonbean01]

I agree with Sheepgirl...I grew up on the prairies in Saskatchewan and it gets bitterly cold and my Dad kept the windows open year round...he said it was far worse for their lungs to not have ventilation than the cold. The colder it gets, the more of a coat they should get I'd think, but do not know much about ND goats.

 

[DonnaBelle]

We've got side windows, full size, covered with the welded wire so they remain open unless it's a blowing rain storm, then we close them but leave them open about 4-6 inches for air to circulate. We open up wide, after the storm.

We have a large roof over hang, with open venting at the top. That stays open, no matter the weather. The animals must have ventilation.

In our buck barn, we've got the side windows covered with welded wire also, with vents up high in the gables and a round one on the roof. Lots of air flow when the barn is locked up for the night.

DonnaBelle

 

[willowgem]

Got it, windows open year round.

Thanks!