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Sadly an iced coffee or portable fan won't relieve our horses in the same way it does for us. They don’t have the luxury of flip-flops or frappuccinos, but there are some things they love just as much!
Whether you’re a perfect pro or just learning the difference between a hoof pick and a headcollar, here are some cool tips to beat the heat...
Early birds and evening owls - Riding and turnout
Instead of tacking up in the middle of the day, try riding early in the morning or later in the evening. Not only is it cooler, but you’ll also get that peaceful golden light that makes you feel like you're starring in a countryside movie montage. In very hot periods of time a couple of days off wouldn't be the end of the world either.
Bonus: fewer flies to annoy you both!
PLUS: If you are at the yard twice a day try overnight turnout, so your horse can graze, move around, and enjoy fresh air without battling blazing sun. It’s simply more comfortable and less stressful for them.
Cool down
After riding or groundwork, give your horse a proper cool-down. That means walking them out, and maybe a quick hose down with cool water.
Water and electrolytes - Your horse's BFF's
Just like us, horses need to stay hydrated, especially if they are sweating during exercise. Make sure they always have access to clean, fresh water, and check it daily. Warm water grows algae quicker than you realise. If your horse lives out with access to a self-filling trough, continue to test their hydration with a skin pinch test to ensure they stay hydrated.
Top Tip: Add a large ice block to their water trough for a cooling treat.
On very hot days or after heavy exercise, your horse might need some electrolytes to replace what they’ve lost sweating it out. All Blue Chip Balancers contain electrolyte provision for daily support.
Make a mash - include your balancer too!
Blue Chip feed balancers can be fed dry, damp or wet, and with or without chaff. Add water to the feed bucket and wait 5 minutes for a lovely re-hydrating mash! A great way to get extra fluids in to your horse in every meal.
Shade is not optional
Horses need shade, whether it’s a field shelter, free access to a stable, a single or bank of trees, or a strategically placed sun shade. Make sure they can retreat out of the sun when they feel like it.
To help your horse seek out shade, place their hay and water stations in those cooler, sheltered spots. Horses may fall asleep in the sun and not realise they are overheating.
Fans and fly sheets
If your horse is stabled during the day, consider using a fan to keep the air moving. Just make sure it’s safely secured and suitable for use in a stable.
Breathable fly rugs can provide both sun protection and relief from flies. Fly relief can also be provided by using a suitable fly spray (always make sure to patch test). This helps to minimise anxious, agitated, or distracted behaviour that can increase the risk of overheating.
Sun cream - not just for us!
Applying sun cream is important on pink noses and light-skinned horses, as they are at risk of sunburn, especially on the face and around the muzzle. Stabling inside during peak UV hours helps prevent painful burns and photosensitivity reactions.
Know the signs of heat stress
Even with all the prep, continue to keep an eye out for signs of heat stress/exhaustion. Heavy sweating (or none at all), rapid breathing, weakness, or acting unusually. If you suspect anything’s wrong, call your vet to ask for their advice.
Fun in the sun with "Popsicles for Ponies"
Freeze some horse-safe treats like carrots or apples in water (an old ice cream tub works well) and tip them out into a feed bucket to offer as equine popsicles. They’ll love the mental challenge, and it's a great way to keep them cool.
In conclusion - Chill vibes only
Keeping your horse cool in summer isn’t just about comfort, it’s crucial for their health and well-being. A little planning, some extra water checks, and a few creature comforts can go a long way. Your horse will certainly feel better, and be happier through the hottest days.
So go ahead, and enjoy providing your equine friend with the VIP hot weather treatment.
@bluechipfeed Heatwave incoming? Don’t sweat it, here are our top tips for managing horses in hot weather! ☀️🧊 ⭐Apply fly spray, protection and sunscreen🪰 ⭐Add water to their feed to increase their water intake and make sure they have access to clean fresh water💦 ⭐Ensure they have shade while out🏖️ ⭐Hose your horse down🚿 Don’t forget to check on your horses regularly, especially during the hottest parts of the day. 🐴 #horse #horseriding #equestrian #horsesoftiktok #toptips #dyk #fyp #foryou #foryoupage #pony #equine ♬ brazil intro - 🎧🏴
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