Tips to Help Your Horse Beat the Summer Heat…As the summer heat makes its presence known, horse owners must take extra precautions to ensure the well-being of their equine companions. The combination of high temperatures and humidity can place a significant burden on horses, especially during rigorous activities such as training, showing, and transportation.
During the bustling summer travel and show season, it becomes increasingly crucial to monitor your horse for signs of overheating. Ensuring that your horse remains sufficiently hydrated and comfortable is essential, even when temperatures reach their peak.
In an informative video, Dr. Katie Young, an esteemed equine nutritionist and manager of equine technical services at Purina Animal Nutrition, offers invaluable advice for horse owners. She shares essential tips to help maintain your horse’s health and comfort throughout the scorching summer months. Her guidance includes strategies to prevent heat stress, maintain proper hydration, replenish vital electrolytes, and create a comfortable environment for your horse in hot weather.
Dr. Young emphasizes the importance of recognizing early signs of heat stress, such as excessive sweating, rapid breathing, or lethargy. She advises providing ample fresh water and incorporating electrolyte supplements into your horse’s diet to replace those lost through sweat. Additionally, she suggests scheduling workouts during cooler parts of the day, providing shade and ventilation, and employing cooling techniques such as hosing down your horse to keep them comfortable.
By following these expert tips, you can help ensure a safe and healthy summer season for your horse, allowing you both to enjoy the sunny days without compromising on well-being.
Article Attributed to Purina and Dr. Katie Young
Katie Young
Ph.D. – Senior Nutritionist & Product Manager, Equine Technical Solutions