Horses are generally happier in cooler weather and their bodies cope better with lower temperature than heat. This obviously presents a problem in Australia and other countries where temperatures can soar in summer.
Here are some quick tips to help make your horse as comfortable as possible:
Water
Average size horses can require over 25 gallons of water per day when the temperature is above 22˚C. It’s essential therefore that your horse has access to clean, cool drinking water. Check that your water troughs are clean and large enough to keep the water cool; if using smaller buckets, refill regularly and ensure that they cannot be knocked over or played with
Stabling
If your horse is stabled, make sure that your stable block allows natural air movement. If required, use fans or misting equipment to keep the air moving (make sure that any electrical cords cannot be reached by nosy horses). This will be particularly important if horses are stabled due to health issues
Shade
Ensure that your horse has access to shade, either under trees or in a paddock shed (preferably one that allows breezes to pass through). If multiple horses are in one paddock, ensure there is enough shade for all as a dominant horse may ‘hog’ the shady area
Exercise
If you absolutely must work your horse on a high heat day (why not have the day off?) change your schedule to work in the coolest part of the day and decrease the work load. An obedient horse may work longer than they should and some riders are so focussed on their riding that they do not recognise that their horse is becoming overheated. Be especially aware if your horse is older or out of condition
Cool Down
Australian eventers are recognised as having great cool down systems after cross country at major championships. Emulate their systems of repeated cold water hose or bucket and scrape to reduce body temperature and help your horse recover quickly after work in hot conditions.
Sunburn
Watch for sunburn on white areas of your horse, particularly noses, and use sunscreen or masks for protection
Salt/Electrolytes
Ensure that your horse has access to a salt block so that they can use at will. In cool weather your horse requires approximately 30g of salt when inactive. With hard work and warm or hot weather, your horse's basic salt needs will increase to about 113g/day for an average-size horse. If using electrolytes, make sure that you understand how and when to administer and ensure that access to fresh water and salt is maintained
Rugs
Although some horses are best unrugged on hot days, light cotton rugs (preferably white or light coloured to reflect the sun rather than absorb it) help to prevent annoyance from flies or other biting summer insects. Light mesh rugs allow ventilation across the entire body while deterring biting insects. If in a bushfire area, all rugs must be removed
Heatstroke
Be aware of the signs of heatstroke in your horse:
- Elevated Respiratory Rate - between 40 to 50 breaths per minute, shallow breathing, and breathing that remains elevated after two minutes of rest
- Elevated Heart Rate - a pulse of more than 80 beats per minute that doesn't slow down after two minutes of rest
- Increased or Absence of Sweating - full-body sweating or, worse, if your horse stops sweating entirely
- Elevated Temperature - a rectal temperature of 103°F or higher
- Lethargy - signs of depression, disinterest in food, stumbling or collapsing
If you suspect your horse is suffering from heatstroke, take immediate action and contact your veterinarian if symptoms persist. To help cool your horse:
- Stop activity - cease any work immediately
- Hose down/douse with cold water
- Offer your horse as much water as he will drink
- Remove your horse from sunlight and find shade
- Stand your horse beneath a fan or in a breezy area
