The summer days and beautiful weather offers many chances to enjoy the warmth with your horse. But whether you enjoy trail riding or need to practice for an upcoming show, here are some riding tips for you and your horse this summer season. For you (or whoever is riding) wear light-colored equestrian apparel as often as possible, regardless if you are hanging out in the barn or riding along your favorite trail. Light colors reflect sunlight, while dark colors absorb them. So by wearing light colors, you can reduce the chances you will feel hot while being in the sun. Also, look for clothing items that wick sweat away from your body and help keep you feeling cool. Light,...
Now that summertime has finally arrived, this is the perfect time to own a horse! There are plenty of fun activities to perform with your horse, especially taking trail rides through your property or anywhere there’s a trail. But it is utterly important to protect your horse when it is outside from the summer heat. Scorching temperatures and high humidity can be dangerous for horses, just like they can be for humans. So it’s important to keep ample amounts of cool water available to let your horse cool down when he or she gets overheated. Even an average sized horse can consume upwards of 25 gallons of water each day anytime the temperatures rise above 70 degrees Fahrenheit! Also, when...
When the temperatures start to rise, you feel uncomfortable and try to escape to the shade or air conditioning. Your horse is no different. So this summer, it’s important to watch your horse for signs it may be overworked, overheated, or worse. During the warm, summer months it’s imperative you provide your horse with shade, cool drinking water, and not overwork the animal. Prolonged exposure to warm temperatures and high humidity can result in heat stroke, heat stress, dehydration, colic, or muscle cramps. The weather itself, poor barn ventilation, and excessive work can lead to these issues. If your horse starts sweating profusely, has droopy ears, or shows signs of fatigue, it is time to stop working or riding and...
