26/06/2024
Important things to remember for your equine friends in the heat… 🐴 ☀️
Some stables are far hotter in summer compared to fields with plenty of shade.
This can also be the other way around if the stable is cool and airy, so it is important to assess whether your horses stable or field is best for them in the heat ☀️🌡️
Here’s some tips for both…
Tips for out in the field 🌱☀️🐴
- Provide unlimited access to clean water
- Provide shade for your horse to get out of the sun
- Use fly protection (sprays, rugs and masks)
- Apply sun cream to prevent sunburn
- Tie a Haynet in the shade to encourage your horse out of the sun
- Turnout in the cooler parts of the day (early mornings and later evenings)
- If your horse is usually out in the day consider night turnout
Tips for in the stable 🏠🐴☀️
- Add extra water to your horses feeds to keep them hydrated ( you can even wet their hay for extra water intake)
- Feed electrolytes to replace any lost through increased sweating in the heat
- Use fans as a great way to keep your horses stables cool
- Open any extra stable windows for increased airflow
Tips for Ridden horses 🏇☀️
- Avoid riding in the hottest parts of the day, beat the heat early in the mornings or wait till the cooler evenings
- Hose off your horses after exercise as an effective way to cool them down
- Avoid travelling at the hottest times of the day
Signs your horse may be suffering in the heat…
-Lethargy
-Fast, shallow breathing
-Elevated heart rate
-Eating less
-Drinking less
-Urinating less and dark urine
-Muscle spasms
-Poor ridden performance
If you are worried about your horse don’t hesitate to call as we are always happy to advise! 01245 429025 📞
