With temperatures on the rise, it is important to monitor your horse for signs of overheating. When a horse’s body temperature gets too high, it can lead to heat stress or even heat stroke, which can have serious complications. Some signs that your horse may be overheating include:
Rapid breathing
Rapid breathing
Increased heart rate
Excessive sweating
Muscle spasms or weakness
Dehydration
Incoordination
Temperature above 103° F
If your horse is displaying these behaviors, they need to be cooled immediately. Cool the horse by hosing them with cold water, offering them something to drink with Dynamite, and placing them in front of a fan. Veterinary attention may be necessary.
The best way to prevent heat stress in horses is to limit exercise in overly hot or humid conditions.
Additional best practices include the following:
Allow your horse to have access to shade
Provide your horse with cool, clean water at all times.
Only work your horse in the cooler hours of the day such as early in the morning or later in the evening.
Install cooling equipment such as fans. Big Ass Fans can make the air in your barn feel up to 10° F cooler!
