When the dead of summer hits, the heat can become almost unbearable. With the temperatures blaring and the humidity rising, it is crucial that you are doing everything you can to make sure your horse is staying cool this summer.

Your horse can become extremely sick if it is not properly protected from the sun. Hyperthermia, commonly referred to as heat stroke, can cause severe, sometimes even fatal conditions. Heat stroke occurs as a result of your animal being unable to lose its body heat, causing its internal temperature to rapidly accelerate. Heat stroke can occur if your horse is plowing or heavily working on hot days, or even just being held in a stuffy, humid stall.

There are many ways you can protect your animal from the heat this summer. Below are a few tips on keeping your animal safe from the sun:

Keep Your Animal Hydrated: Water is key! Always make sure your animal has access to large amounts of fresh, cool water to ensure proper hydration. The average horse can consume up to 5-10 gallons of water in one day, and this number can double when the temperature gets above 70 degrees.

Keep Your Stalls Ventilated: Keeping your horse in a stuffy, humid stall is extremely dangerous for your animal. Unventilated stalls can lead to your animal having a heat stroke, so it is important that your animal stays cool while in a stall. Installing misting fans, or keeping the doors and windows open, if possible are a great way to ventilate those compact spaces.

Proper Coat Care: Be sure to maintain your animal’s coat and mane by keeping its hair trimmed and shampooed. A trimmed coat will keep your horse cool and clean for the summer. There are also various shampoos that contain sunscreen to help protect your animal from harmful UV rays.

Use a Hose: Hoses are a great and easy way to cool off your animal on a hot day. Grab a sponge and a hose and apply cool water to your animal’s coat. Scrape off the water and repeat to completely cool your animal down and help them dry off.

There are various signs of an impending heat stroke that your horse will give off including:

• Erratic heart and respiratory rates
• Increased or absence of sweating
• Lethargy
• Excessive salivation

If your animal is experiencing any of these symptoms, it is crucial to cease all activity your horse is doing, and get them in the shade. Bring your animal water, and sponge them off with cool water is well. If symptoms persist – contact your veterinarian immediately.

Don’t forget to contact Equine Medical and Surgical Associates for any questions you may have regarding keeping your animal cool this summer!