How can we best manage our horses during hot weather?
Hot weather presents challenges for horses, especially during exercise. Avoid riding during the hottest parts of the day, as exercise elevates body temperature. And, don’t forget, both you and your horse can suffer heat stress and stroke!
Horses not acclimated to triple-digit temperatures should not be exercised in them. Unfit horses, overweight horses, and older/geriatric horses are all at higher risk of developing heat stress. Horses housed in poorly ventilated areas (stall, trailer, etc.) are also at higher risk.
Fans, misters, sponge baths, and extra shade are all ways to provide extra cooling assistance to your horse. As always, an abundant supply of clean, fresh drinking water is a must. Adding 1-2 tablespoons of salt or commercial electrolyte powder to grain can help to stimulate thirst.
What are signs of heat stress in horses?
- Rectal temperature above 102 degrees F.
- Increased heart and/or respiratory rate.
- Profuse sweating.
- Droopy ears.
- Tiredness/lethargy.
- Increased skin tent (lasts several seconds).
- Inappetence.
What are the signs of heat stroke in horses?
- Rectal temperature above 106 degrees F.
- Rapid heart and/or respiratory rates that don’t decrease within 29 minutes of exercise.
- Signs of distress (including whinnying).
- Dehydration, dry mucous membranes and prolonged skin tents (4-10 seconds).
- Muscle weakness.
- Incoordination.
- Collapse.
Heat stroke is an emergency requiring immediate veterinary attention!
What can you do to cool an overheated horse?
- Stop all exercise.
- Get them out of the sun.
- Use fans.
- Spray cold/ice water on the horse.
- Provide cool, clean water.
- Make electrolytes available.
Your veterinarian will likely provide IV fluids and other emergency medical therapy.
What not to do for overheated horses:
- Do not use blankets, sheets, or coolers, which will prevent evaporative cooling.
- Do not dry sweat off – sweat cools them as it evaporates — it is better to spray down with cool water.
- Do not put ice over the rump of a horse, instead put it over the head, neck, back and ribs (more prominent blood vessels).
- Do not put the horse in a hot trailer.
Monitor the hydration status of your horse. Know his normal temperature, pulse, and respiration. Remember that each horse is an individual.