Stay cool in the heat!
It's too hot to ride, and horses are feeling the heat, but we have solutions on how to make them as comfortable as possible.
Fly Sheets and Kool Koats
Made with lightweight fabrics, fly sheets are breathable and allow air flow. They can make a dark horse cooler, since they are generally made with light, UV ray-reflecting colors.
Cool Tip: Flies love the heat. When using a fly sheet, make sure you have light-colored sheets on hand for hot weather. Hose down your horse in the shade, only rinsing if you can keep them (and your hose) in the shade. Using ice packs on legs is also a great way to cool them down.
Automatic Waterers
Keep clean water in limitless supply all day. Automatic waterers make it easy to help keep water available.
Cool Tip: Be sure the water is fresh and cool. Water heats up quickly and horses won't drink hot water, which could lead to colic. Stock tanks should be kept in the shade and filled halfway to easily dump and refill throughout the day.
Salt Licks
Salt contains high mineral content, including iron, potassium and magnesium, which are all vital for maintaining health.
Cool Tip: Provide salt freely. Horses should be eating at least 2 oz. daily. Weigh your blocks every two weeks to make sure they are getting enough.
Electrolytes
Dehydration can be a serious health concern in horses, which is why horse electrolytes are so important.
- Published:
7/18/2019:
10:38:52 AM ET
- Updated:
7/18/2019:
5:15:25 PM ET