17/05/2025
The note about grumpy behaviour is important!
Many horses are now living out, with increased turnout or even overnight turnout. In many cases, however, the grass isnât coming through.
Horses are herbivores â grass forage is their main source of calorie intake.
So, if that forage is poor or low in quantity, take a moment to consider how that could be affecting your horseâs behaviour right now.
Spooky or reactive behaviour, grumpiness, and sensitivity arenât solely caused by restricted movement in winter â they can also be due to restricted access to appropriate foraging opportunities.
So, this can happen in the summer months too.
Itâs easy to attribute certain behaviours to certain seasons - but try to remember - the environment is more than the season.
And âenvironmentâ is a huge factor influencing equine behaviour
âHot, Dry & Dusty: Unusual Spring Horse Care Essentials for the UK!
We donât usually talk about droughts in May... but here we are. Whilst its been lovely to have such gorgeous weather, the reality is with barely a drop of rain in weeks and none in the forecast, itâs time to think about how these dry conditions are affecting your horses.
Hereâs what to keep an eye on and how to help:
âď¸ Dusty fields = irritated airways
Dry, dusty ground can trigger coughing and flare-ups in horses with asthma or allergies. Keep an eye (and ear) out for increased coughing or nasal discharge, and consider soaking hay or dampening arenas if you can.
đą Poor pasture growth = poor nutrition
Your grass might look green but be offering little in the way of nutrients. If your horse is dropping condition or getting a bit grumpy, it may be time to review their diet or add a supplement to fill in the gaps.
đ§ Hydration matters
Warm, dry weather can reduce your horseâs water intake, especially if the water is warm or stale. Offer fresh, cool water daily, add salt or electrolytes if needed, and keep an eye on signs of dehydration (like dry gums or sunken eyes).
𦶠Hard ground = sore legs and hooves
Baked ground puts more strain on joints, hooves, and tendons. Avoid fast or repetitive work on hard surfaces, check hooves daily for cracks or bruising, and keep them well-conditioned to prevent issues.
This weather calls for a proper check-in on how your horse is coping overall. If you have any concerns or would like advice please don't hesitate to call us on 01782 510502.