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Summer can be a wonderful time for horse owners. Longer days, more riding opportunities, and beautiful weather. But with higher temperatures and seasonal challenges come extra responsibilities. Horses are just as susceptible to heat stress, dehydration, and pests as humans are. To keep your horse in top shape through the summer months, here are essential tips every horse owner should follow.
- Hydration is Everything
In the summer, a horse can drink between 50 to 70 litres of water a day, and even more if working. Always provide access to clean, fresh water. Dirty buckets or troughs can discourage drinking, so clean them regularly to avoid algae buildup. If your horse is a reluctant drinker, consider adding flavouring like apple juice or a pinch of salt to encourage more frequent sips. Electrolyte supplements can also help replenish what’s lost through sweat, especially after work or during heatwaves. When inside, consider automatic water drinkers to provide fresh, clean water throughout the day.
- Provide Ample Shade and Shelter
Even if your horse lives outside most of the time, they need an area to escape the direct sun. Whether it’s a run-in shed, a tree line, or a covered paddock, shade reduces the risk of sunburn and heat exhaustion. If your horse is stabled during the day, make sure the stable is well-ventilated. Keep stable windows open and use fans where necessary (and safe) to keep air moving and reduce humidity inside.
- Adjust Your Riding Schedule
Avoid riding in the hottest part of the day, usually between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. Instead, aim for early mornings or evenings when temperatures are lower. If you must ride during midday, keep workouts short and low-intensity. Always cool your horse down properly afterward; Walk them out, hose them down with plenty of water, and offer water. A sweaty, overheated horse is more prone to heatstroke, muscle cramps, and dehydration.
- Protect Against Sunburn
Just like people, horses can get sunburn, especially those with pink skin or light-coloured coats. The most affected areas include the nose, around the eyes, and under white markings. Use equine-safe sunblock on exposed skin and consider fly masks with UV protection or nose flaps. You can also limit turnout during peak sun hours for particularly sensitive horses.
- Manage Insects and Pests
Summer brings a surge of flies, gnats, mosquitoes, and ticks. These pests are more than annoying—they can spread disease and cause skin irritations. Use a combination of fly sprays, masks, sheets, and good manure management to minimise their presence. Consider installing fly predators or using natural repellents for a more holistic approach. Make sure water troughs and buckets are cleaned regularly to avoid becoming mosquito breeding grounds.
- Groom Daily to Promote Skin Health
Sweat, dust, and insect bites can cause summer skin issues like rain scald, hives, or fungal infections. Daily grooming removes sweat and debris and lets you check for new scrapes, bites, or irritations. Pay special attention to areas under tack where sweat accumulates. A quick rinse with water after a ride can help but be sure to dry your horse well – especially when humid, where moisture can cause fungal growth.
- Monitor Body Condition and Weight
Some horses lose weight in summer due to heat stress, while others gain due to rich pasture. Regularly assess your horse’s body condition score, and adjust feed accordingly. Keep in mind that increased activity in summer may require more calories, while easy keepers might need grazing muzzles or limited turnout. Also, ensure that salt blocks or loose mineral supplements are available to help regulate electrolyte balance.
- Stay Alert for Signs of Heat Stress
Heatstroke in horses is a serious emergency. Signs include:
- Rapid breathing or panting
- Excessive sweating (or, in severe cases, no sweating at all)
- Lethargy or stumbling
- Elevated heart rate that doesn’t drop after rest
If you suspect heat stress, immediately move the horse to shade, hose them with cool (not icy) water, and call your vet. Preventing heat-related issues is far easier than treating them.
Summer can be one of the most enjoyable times to own and ride horses, but it demands extra attention to care. By focusing on hydration, smart scheduling, pest control, and sun protection, you’ll set your horse up for a safe and happy season. Remember, when in doubt, listen to your horse—they’ll usually tell you when something isn’t right.