Summer Hacks Keeping Your Equine Safe and Healthy

Summer is a vibrant season for horses, filled with longer rides, outdoor adventures, and lush pastures. However, the warmer weather also brings unique challenges that can affect your horse’s health. To ensure your equine companion stays happy, healthy, and comfortable all season long, here are some essential summer health hacks.

Maintain Adequate Hydration

Dehydration is a major concern during hot weather. Horses can sweat heavily, losing vital fluids and electrolytes.

Tips:  

Provide unlimited access to clean, fresh water at all times.
Consider electrolyte supplements, especially after strenuous activity or during heatwaves.
Use automatic waterers or regular checks to ensure water availability and cleanliness.

Adjust Feeding Routines

Digestive health can be impacted by heat, and feeding habits may need modification.

Tips:  

Offer smaller, more frequent meals to reduce the risk of colic.
Increase forage intake to promote natural cooling and digestion.
Limit grain consumption during peak heat hours, as high energy diets can increase internal heat.

Create Shade and Shelter

Protection from direct sunlight helps prevent heat exhaustion and sunburn.

Tips:  

Ensure paddocks have shaded areas such as trees, shelters, or run-in sheds.
Consider portable shade structures for turnout areas.
During peak sunlight hours (10 am to 4 pm), limit turnout or provide additional shade.

Implement Sun Protection

Horses with light-colored or sensitive skin are prone to sunburn, especially on noses and ears.

Tips:  

Use non-toxic horse-safe sunblock on exposed areas.
Consider fly masks with UV protection.
Keep horses in shaded areas during the hottest parts of the day.

Manage Parasites and Insects

Summer insects like flies and mosquitoes can cause discomfort and transmit diseases.

Tips:  

Use fly masks and fly sprays to reduce irritation.
Maintain clean stables and paddocks to minimize breeding grounds.
Implement a parasite control program as advised by your veterinarian.

Monitor for Heat Stress and Exhaustion

Horses can suffer from heat stress if not properly managed.

Signs to watch for:  

Excessive sweating or rapid breathing
Elevated heart rate
Lethargy or weakness
Dizziness or stumbling

Response:  

Move the horse to a shaded, cool area immediately.
Offer water, but don’t force drinking if unresponsive.
Use fans or cool water sprays on the body, especially the neck and legs.
Contact your veterinarian if symptoms persist or worsen.

Regular Grooming and Skin Care

Grooming helps keep the coat clean and promotes air circulation.

Tips:  

Brush regularly to remove sweat, dirt, and loose hair.
Check for skin irritations, cuts, or sunburns.
Keep the mane and tail tidy to prevent matting and insect attraction.

Plan Exercise Wisely

Heat can impact performance and increase the risk of heat-related illnesses.

Tips:  

Exercise during cooler parts of the day early morning or late evening.
Keep workouts light and avoid strenuous activity during peak heat.
Allow ample cool-down time post-exercise and provide water immediately.

Summer can be a delightful time for horses, but it requires proactive care to ensure their well-being. By implementing these summer health hacks, you can help your horse stay comfortable, healthy, and ready for all the adventures the season brings. Always consult with your veterinarian for personalized advice and routine health checks to keep your equine friend thriving throughout the warmer months.