Developing the Sport Horse: The Importance of Hydration

3. Ensure horses (and riders) get frequent breaks out of the sun, with access to cool water and stable fans. If you notice a horse showing signs of heat stress (soaked in sweat, inverted respiratory pattern, dull eyes) get the horse into the shade and start cooling immediately while someone contacts the attending or show veterinarian.

For veterinarians and riders of endurance horses, cooling horses becomes second nature with experience and education. Start by hosing or sponging cold water down the neck over the jugular veins, along the belly and in between the hind legs (look for the big dilated veins). The repetitive application of cold water is KEY to removing excess heat from the body. Continue to apply water to the body until the water coming off is not gaining heat. The addition of air movement will enhance heat removal from the body (natural breeze or fans can be used). You can soak the horse from ears to tail with cold water if necessary. (Tying up syndrome does not result from the application of cold water; it happens inside the muscle as a result of dehydration and accumulated “cell garbage.”)