Keeping Your Horse Cool in the Summer Heat

I live in the Midwest, and we know all about hot summers. You can watch the sun rise through a haze due to the high humidity hanging out across the corn fields, too warm for sleeves at the very beginning of the day. As humans, we have our options of getting in the shade, in air conditioning, or even just in front of a fan when we're feeling a little overwhelmed from the heat, but our horses only have the options we provide them.

There are a couple different scenarios that we need to think about concerning our horses and the summer heat. No matter the circumstances, always provide your horse access to cool, clean water to drink. Studies have shown that it is safe to let them drink water when they desire, even if that means during a work-out. If they are in a stall, make sure they have a fan to keep the air moving, and open windows to the breeze if possible. Fresh air is always best. If your horse is outside in a pasture or paddock, you may have slightly more limited choices. Ideally, there should be a building or trees to provide shade for the horses. If that is not available, you may want to spray your horse down with water once or twice a day to provide them with some relief from the heat and a chance to cool their internal body temperatures a bit.

If you are actively riding during the heat, and many of us don't have a lot of options in that regard, there are some things that you can do to help your horse during your training sessions. Provide water before and after, while tacking and un-tacking. I often will tack up, and then take my horse to the wash rack and spray down their chest, hips, legs, and belly before starting our ride, adding a coat of fly spray. This helps them stay cool longer as they get some relief from the air moving against their wet skin and hair. Immediately after our ride is finished, I like to give them a good, long rinse, ideally letting the water flow over them until you can feel their temperature lower. If you only spray them briefly, they may sweat right through it.

While you've got the hose handy, don't forget about yourself. The heat can be a lot for humans to handle, too. Wear breathable fabric, and don't be afraid to apply that nice cold water from the hose right to your own head in between drinking it and spraying it on your horse.

Overall, show love and care for yourself and your horse. Some days will be just too hot to ride - take a walk together in the shade, and maybe do some grazing after a light spray down with some refreshing water. There's always time to take time for your relationship with your horse.

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