Hot Weather Horse Care

Summertime with its heatwaves and high temperatures can be uncomfortable for horses and extreme heat can be dangerous. By planning ahead and being mindful you can help keep your horse safe and comfortable during summers heat.
Here are some important tips to prevent heatrelated problems in horses
1. Know the signs of fatigue and overheating.
These signs include
A high respiratory rate more than 40 breaths per minute that does not come down after 10 to 30 minutes of rest changes in mental activity or decreased energy levels.

Mucous membranes in the mouth become dry and lose their usual slimy feel.
You may also notice a prolonged capillary refill time indicating dehydration. To test push on your horses gums. They should start out pink then blanch to white after pressure and return to pink in one to two seconds.
Use a stethoscope or put your ear on your horses flank behind the ribs to listen for gut sounds. Gurgling sounds are normal and good. Quiet gut sounds are a warning that your horse may be uncomfortable.
2. Keep your horse hydrated. 
Maintain hydration by allowing free access to water at all times. It is a myth that if a hot horse drinks water it will experience colic or other medical problems. If you think your horse is not drinking enough water offer some hay to encourage drinking after eating. Soupy bran or pellet mashes are another means of getting extra water into your horse.
3. Keep a supply of water available for your horse to drink.
Obtain some clean fivegallon cans and fill them up with water before you travel. A 1000pound horse not in work not lactating and not in high heat and humidity needs a minimum of six gallons per day. This doubles or triples in high heat and humidity requiring no less than 12 to 18 gallons