How To Keep Your Horses Cool in Hot Weather

BY KAYLA BEIRNE

Horse owners are responsible for ensuring the well-being of their animals. Use these tips to help your horses thrive this summer, no matter how hot it gets.

As the summer temperatures rise, most people stay indoors and crank up the AC. Unfortunately, outdoor animals like horses may not have that luxury, making it vital that they have other ways to cool down. Discover these tricks for keeping your horses cool in hot weather.

Too Hot? Don’t Ride

The number one rule for keeping your horses healthy and happy this summer is to avoid riding them when the combined temperature and humidity is over 150. Riding horses in extreme temperatures makes it more likely that they will overheat, which can have nasty consequences for your hooved friends.

Offer Plenty of Water

Horses need to drink more water in hot weather, just like people do. Ensure your horses have plenty of fresh water to drink and maybe some to splash around in too.

Create Shade

If your property is open to the sky, it’s a good idea to put in some trees or build a shelter to offer your horses a chance to get out of the sun. Lean-tos with shed-style roofing are ideal for letting horses wander in and out of the shade as they please.

Increase Airflow

Another important step to keeping your horses cool in hot weather is to ensure there’s a breeze on your property. If you need to create an artificial breeze, attach a fan to your horses’ shelter—bonus points for adding a mister.

Sun Cream

Did you know they make sunscreen for horses? Just like people should protect their skin from the sun’s UV rays, horses that are outside all day can also use the extra protection. Make sure to buy a formula designed for horses and test it on a small area before applying normally.

Sponge Baths

A great way to bond with your horses this summer is to give them sponge baths on hot days. The water helps your equine friends cool down and increases their coats’ receptivity to breezes.

Horse Popsicles

Who doesn’t like a frozen treat on a hot day? One easy way to cool your horses down is to give them popsicles with water and slices of their favorite fruits and veggies. Throw everything into a plastic container with a lid and stick it in the freezer. Once frozen, toss it into your horses’ food trough for a tasty frozen snack.

Horse owners are responsible for ensuring the health and well-being of their animals. Use these tips to make sure your horses are thriving this summer, no matter how high the temperatures get.