08/24/2023
CAN YOU RECOGNIZE HEAT STRESS IN HORSES? ☀️🐴
Signs of heat stroke may range from mild to severe and life-threatening; they may include the following:
1) Temperature as high as 105 to 107 F
2) Rapid breathing, rapid pulse
3) Stumbling, weakness, depression
4) Refusal to eat or work
5) Dry skin and dehydration
6) In severe cases, a horse may collapse or go into convulsions or a coma
Exercise is a major source of body heat, and horses with a compromised ability to sweat are especially at risk of overheating, even in cooler weather with a small amount of exercise. Horses with heavy muscling or excess fat or in poor condition will also have more problems. (Keep in mind that strenuous exercise on a hot, humid day can lead to problems in a short period of time for even the best-conditioned horse.)
Foals are at risk in hot weather as well—The mare may be fine, but her foal may be getting sick from being out on a hot day as foals usually cannot take as much heat as adult horses.
Does this mean you should not work your horse on a hot day? Not necessarily. It just means you should take precautions and use your common sense. Remain vigilant for dehydration and signs of heat exhaustion, as heat exhaustion can advance to heat stroke quickly. Above all, be kind and attentive to your horse’s need. If you feel hot, your equine friend feels even hotter. So if they look tired, it’s time for a drink, a cold bath, and a break in the shade.�
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�Source: Heat Stroke | https://aaep.org/horsehealth/heat-stroke
