When summer temperatures soar, your horse’s health and comfort should be top priority. Horses are naturally resilient animals, but extreme heat can cause dehydration, heat stress, or even dangerous conditions like heatstroke. Thankfully, with the right care and proactive steps, you can help your horse stay cool and comfortable during even the hottest days.
1. Provide Constant Access to Fresh, Cool Water
Hydration is the most important factor in managing your horse’s well-being in summer. A horse can drink anywhere from 5 to 15 gallons of water a day—and even more when sweating heavily. Make sure water troughs or buckets are clean and refilled regularly with cool, fresh water. In extremely hot conditions, adding electrolytes to their water or feed can also help replace the salts lost through sweat.
2. Offer Shade and Shelter
Whether your horse is turned out in a pasture or kept in a stall, make sure they have access to shade. Trees, run-in sheds, or shaded barns are all excellent options. If your pasture doesn’t have natural shade, consider installing a portable shelter or rotating turnout times to early morning or late evening when the sun is less intense.
3. Adjust Work Schedules
Avoid riding or working your horse during the peak heat of the day—usually between 11 AM and 4 PM. Plan your sessions for early mornings or late evenings when temperatures are cooler. Keep workouts light, monitor for signs of overheating (like excessive sweating or lethargy), and always cool down properly.
4. Use Cooling Gear and Techniques
Products like fly sheets with UV protection, cooling wraps, and misting fans can offer extra relief on hot days. After riding, sponge your horse down with cool (not icy) water, focusing on large blood vessel areas like the neck and inner legs. Scrape off excess water to allow better evaporation and cooling.
5. Control Flies and Heat-Related Irritants
Hot weather means flies, gnats, and other pests are out in force. In addition to being a nuisance, flies can stress your horse and cause skin irritation. Use fly sprays, fly masks, and protective sheets to keep bugs at bay while also shielding them from the sun.
6. Monitor for Signs of Heat Stress
Know the signs of overheating: rapid breathing, high body temperature, lack of coordination, or refusal to eat or drink. If you suspect heatstroke, act fast—move your horse to shade, cool them with water, and contact your vet immediately.
With a little extra care and attention, you can help your horse thrive even through the hottest summer days. By prioritizing hydration, shade, and smart routines, your equine friend will stay happy, healthy, and cool all season long.
