When temperatures rise, it’s not just us who feel the heat, horses can suffer too. Overheating, dehydration, and sun exposure can lead to serious health concerns. That’s why it’s essential to take steps to keep your horse cool, comfortable, and safe during the warmer months.
Here are our top tips to help your horse beat the heat this summer.
1. Provide Constant Access to Fresh, Clean Water Hydration is the most important line of defence against overheating. Make sure water troughs and buckets are cleaned daily and topped up regularly, especially in hot weather when horses will drink more.
💡 Top Tip: Adding an electrolyte supplement can encourage horses to drink more and replenish lost salts after sweating.
2. Adjust Turnout Times Avoid turning horses out during the hottest parts of the day. Early morning or late evening turnout helps reduce sun exposure and the risk of heat exhaustion.
If full daytime turnout is necessary, ensure there is adequate shelter or shade from trees or field shelters.
3. Use Lightweight, Breathable Rugs For horses that need fly protection or UV coverage, choose fly sheets made from breathable mesh. These allow airflow while keeping the sun and insects off.
🛒 Check out our fly rugs and summer sheets here for lightweight protection that won’t trap heat.
4. Offer Shade in Stables and Fields Well-ventilated stables with fans or shaded areas in the field are essential. If your field lacks natural shade, consider installing a simple shelter or sun sail.
5. Hose Down or Sponge Off After Exercise A cool rinse after riding is a great way to lower your horse’s body temperature. Focus on the neck, chest, and legs. For maximum effect, scrape off excess water so it doesn't trap heat against the skin.
6. Use Coolers and Sweat Sheets Post-Workout After a rinse or bath, a lightweight cooler can help wick away moisture and aid cooling. Just be sure to remove it once it’s damp so it doesn’t hold heat.
7. Limit Intense Workouts in High Heat Avoid schooling or hacking during peak heat. Early morning and evening rides are safer and more comfortable for both horse and rider.
Conclusion Warm weather doesn’t have to mean discomfort or danger. With a few simple adjustments to your routine, you can keep your horse cool, hydrated, and happy all summer long.
Explore our full range of summer horse care essentials at Nags Essentials, because a comfortable horse is a healthy horse.
