Top 5 Ways to Help Your Horse Stay Cool This Summer in the UK

It's summertime in the UK and that means hot weather. As temperatures start to rise, it's important to remember that horses are also susceptible to the heat, so it's important to take measures to help keep them cool and comfortable. In this blog post, we'll be sharing the top 5 ways to help your horse stay cool this summer in the UK. From providing plenty of shade to creating a cooling mist, these simple tips will help your horse beat the heat and enjoy the warm weather.

1) Why Keeping Your Horse Cool in the Summer is Important
During the summer months, horse care becomes even more crucial as the hot weather can have a significant impact on your equine companion. It is important to understand why keeping your horse cool during this time is essential for their overall health and well-being.

Firstly, horses are extremely sensitive to heat and can quickly become overheated, leading to heat exhaustion or even heatstroke. Just like humans, they are susceptible to dehydration, fatigue, and heat-related illnesses. Therefore, it is imperative to take proactive measures to ensure your horse stays cool and comfortable throughout the summer season.

Additionally, the hot weather can also lead to increased stress levels in horses, which can adversely affect their behavior and performance. Horses may become irritable, agitated, or unwilling to work due to the discomfort caused by the heat. By implementing strategies to keep them cool, you are not only safeguarding their physical health but also promoting their mental well-being.
Furthermore, keeping your horse cool in the summer can help prevent other potential health issues. Excessive sweating, for example, can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, putting your horse at risk for colic and other digestive problems. By ensuring they remain cool and hydrated, you can minimize the chances of these complications arising.

Overall, taking the necessary steps to keep your horse cool during the summer is a fundamental part of responsible horse care. By providing them with a comfortable and cool environment, you are ensuring their well-being, health, and happiness throughout the hottest months of the year.

2) Provide Adequate Shade and Shelter
One of the most important aspects of horse care during the summer is to ensure that your horse has access to shade and shelter at all times. Horses are extremely sensitive to heat and can easily become overheated if left out in direct sunlight for too long. It is therefore essential to provide your horse with a cool and comfortable place to rest during the hottest parts of the day.

If your horse spends most of their time outside, you should provide a shaded area with natural cover such as trees, bushes, or a covered shelter. This will provide protection from the sun and help to keep your horse cool. If you have stables, make sure that they are well-ventilated to allow for proper airflow and to prevent the build-up of heat.

In addition to providing shade and shelter, it is also important to ensure that your horse has access to fresh water at all times. This will help to prevent dehydration and keep your horse cool. Be sure to clean out water buckets and troughs regularly to prevent the growth of algae and bacteria.
By providing adequate shade and shelter for your horse, you can help to keep them cool and comfortable during the hot summer months. This will not only promote good horse care, but it will also help to ensure their overall health and well-being.

3) Ensure Access to Fresh Water at All Times
One of the most crucial aspects of keeping your horse cool and hydrated during the hot summer months is to ensure that they have access to fresh water at all times. Horses can quickly become dehydrated in high temperatures, and dehydration can lead to serious health issues such as heatstroke or colic.

Make sure that your horse always has access to clean, cool water throughout the day. This can be achieved by providing them with a constant supply of water in a clean and reliable water source, such as a trough or bucket. Regularly check the water to ensure that it is not contaminated, and clean the water source regularly to prevent the growth of algae or bacteria.

Consider placing multiple water sources in different areas of the pasture or stable to encourage your horse to drink more frequently. Horses tend to drink more when they have to walk to the water source, so strategically placing water in different locations can help to keep them well-hydrated.

Additionally, during hot weather, it may be beneficial to add electrolytes to your horse's water to replenish the minerals and salts lost through sweating. This can help to maintain their overall hydration levels and prevent dehydration.
By ensuring that your horse always has access to fresh water, you are taking an essential step in keeping them cool and healthy during the summer heat. Remember to check their water supply regularly and make adjustments as necessary to ensure they are receiving an adequate amount of hydration throughout the day.

4) Schedule Exercise and Turnout during Cooler Parts of the Day
During the hot summer months in the UK, it's crucial to schedule your horse's exercise and turnout during the cooler parts of the day. This not only helps prevent overheating and dehydration but also ensures their overall well-being.
Early morning and late evening are the ideal times to exercise your horse, as the temperatures are usually lower during these periods. Avoid exercising them during the peak heat of the day, which is typically between 11 am and 3 pm. The intense sun and high temperatures during these hours can be dangerous for your horse and increase the risk of heatstroke.

When planning turnout, try to have your horse spend more time outside during the cooler parts of the day. Consider adjusting their turnout schedule, so they can enjoy the cooler temperatures and have access to shade. If possible, provide a turnout area with trees or other natural shelters that can offer protection from the sun.

In addition to scheduling exercise and turnout, it's important to monitor your horse for signs of overheating. Look out for excessive sweating, rapid breathing, lethargy, and an increased heart rate. If you notice any of these symptoms, immediately bring your horse to a shaded area and provide them with water. You may also need to seek veterinary assistance if the symptoms persist or worsen.

By scheduling exercise and turnout during cooler parts of the day, you can help keep your horse comfortable and safe during the summer months. Remember, it's always better to be cautious and prioritize their well-being over strict training schedules. Your horse will thank you for it.

5) Use Cooling Techniques such as Hosing and Wet Towels
When temperatures soar during the summer months, it's essential to use various cooling techniques to help your horse beat the heat. One effective method is to hose your horse down with cool water. Start by wetting your horse's legs, then gradually work your way up the body, avoiding the head and ears. Pay special attention to areas where your horse's major blood vessels are located, such as the neck, chest, and inner thighs. This helps to cool down the horse's core temperature and promote overall comfort.

Another great cooling technique is the use of wet towels. Simply soak a towel in cool water and drape it over your horse's body, focusing on the areas where heat is more concentrated, like the neck and chest. This not only provides immediate relief but also helps to prevent overheating.

Remember to regularly monitor your horse's body temperature while using these cooling techniques. If you notice your horse is still excessively hot or showing signs of distress, seek veterinary assistance immediately.
In addition to hosing and wet towels, you can also consider using other cooling methods such as misting systems or fans in the stable area. These can provide a constant source of cool air and help to lower the ambient temperature for your horse.

By using these cooling techniques, you can ensure your horse remains comfortable and safe during the scorching summer months in the UK. Keeping your horse cool is crucial for their overall well-being and helps prevent heat-related issues such as dehydration and heatstroke.