“When the weather heats up, us humans have the option of taking a break in the air conditioning, but our horses do not.Granted, they wouldn’t want to, but they do appreciate our help keeping them comfortable.  Our Ranch is located near the Texas border & we know a thing or two about the heat of summer. Add humidity to the mix and simple outside activities can really become difficult and hard on the body.

Here are some tips to help care for and keep your horse comfortable when it starts feeling like a sauna outside.”

Keep Your Water Troughs Full and Under Shade

“The water in a full trough will be much cooler than a trough that is very low. It takes longer to heat up 100 gallons then it does a gallon or two for example. Shade protects the water from the sun which will keep water cooler. This will also help keep algae down. In peak summer months we are cleaning, and filling troughs every day. Keeping the troughs topped off to ensure the water is cooler, they have 24/7 access, and we can monitor consumption.”

Horses require a significant amount of water to stay properly hydrated, especially during hot weather or when engaging in physical activity. If the water in troughs becomes too warm due to sun exposure, horses may drink less, leading to dehydration. By placing the troughs in the shade, the water remains cooler and more appealing, encouraging horses to drink enough to meet their hydration needs. Sunlight also promotes the growth of algae in standing water. Algae not only affects the visual appeal of the water but can also alter its taste and quality. Excessive algae growth may also lead to health issues in horses if ingested. Placing troughs in the shade can help reduce sunlight exposure, minimizing the growth of algae and keeping the water cleaner and safer for consumption.

Featuring : Little Giant Galvanized Automatic Waterer #88SW | Ritchie Genesis G2 Waterer #18885 | Classic Stallfount No Heat Automatic Watering System #FOUNTSTALLNOHEAT

Algae Growth Treatments and Preventions

1. Clean the water trough regularly to remove any accumulated debris, organic matter, and algae. Scrub the trough thoroughly using a brush to dislodge any algae growth. Empty and refill the trough with fresh water at least once a week or more frequently if needed.

2. There are algaecides and water treatments available specifically designed to inhibit algae growth in animal water troughs. These products are safe for use around horses when used according to the manufacturer's instructions. Consult with your local veterinarian or equine supply store for suitable algaecide options.

3. Automatic waterers or troughs with built-in float valves can help maintain a constant water level. These systems often have mechanisms in place to minimize algae growth, such as limited exposure to air and sunlight. However, regular cleaning and maintenance are still necessary.

4. As mentioned earlier, keeping the water trough in a shaded area can help reduce sunlight exposure, which in turn minimizes algae growth. Consider placing the trough under a tree, a shade sail, or a shelter to provide protection from direct sunlight.

Remember, even with preventative measures in place, occasional algae growth may still occur. Regular monitoring, cleaning, and maintenance are key to keeping the water trough clean and ensuring a healthy water source for your horses.

Give Your Horses Access to Ventilated Shade

“The difference of temperature from being in the sun, to under shade is substantial. Now shade that is in an enclosed barn with no air flow will not be sought after like shade that also has a nice breeze blowing through. Shade that a tree provides is a great example or a shelter that has a roof but no walls. If your horse is in a barn, opening the barn doors or putting up fans will help keep them comfortable.”

When designing or selecting a shelter or barn for your horses, prioritize good ventilation. Choose a structure with ample windows, doors, or openings that allow for cross ventilation. Position the openings strategically to promote airflow and minimize the accumulation of stagnant air. Positioning the openings or windows on the sides facing the prevailing winds will facilitate the natural flow of air through the space. You’ll want to provide enough space within the shelter or barn to allow for proper air circulation. Avoid overcrowding, as it can impede the movement of air and lead to poor ventilation. Each horse should have sufficient room to move comfortably and access fresh air.

Install windows that can be opened or fitted with adjustable vents to control airflow. This allows you to regulate the amount of fresh air entering the space while preventing drafts during colder seasons. Adjustable vents or louvers positioned higher up on the walls can help expel stale air and heat, promoting natural convection and ventilation.

Provide Aisle or Stall Fans

“Barn fans are one of my favorite items for managing the hot summer months. They keep air moving, can cool a horse or human down quickly, and can dry out a place to avoid humidity inside the building. A fan kept in the aisle can be moved to cool horses before and after workouts, while grooming and while getting vet or farrier work done. Isolating fans can be mounted in your stalls, or under your lean-tos to provide extra air circulation in places your horses hang out. (Bonus – the breeze will also keep flies off them!)”

Fans help to circulate the air within the barn or shelter, promoting better ventilation and reducing stagnant air pockets. Horses tend to be susceptible to heat stress, which can lead to dehydration, fatigue, and even more severe conditions like heat stroke. Fans can help cool the air around the horses by creating a gentle breeze, aiding in evaporative cooling from their skin and respiratory system. The gentle breeze generated by fans can also have a soothing effect on horses. It can mimic the natural airflow they experience outdoors and create a more pleasant and relaxing environment.

When using fans for horses, it's important to consider safety measures :

1. Ensure fans are securely mounted or positioned to prevent accidental contact or injuries to the horses.

2. Use fans specifically designed for equine use, as they typically have safety features like guards to protect against injuries.

3. Regularly inspect and clean fans to remove any accumulated dust or debris.

4. Be cautious of electrical cords and connections, ensuring they are properly installed and protected to avoid potential hazards.

Featuring : Sullivan Supply Showbarn Fan #T28 | Classic Black Fan Bag #FB21BK | Tough 1 Box Fan Holder #88-497-0-0

While fans can provide significant benefits, they should not be used as a substitute for other essential management practices, such as providing shade, fresh water, proper nutrition, and appropriate turnout time for horses.

Avoid Peak Heat Times for Activity

“Depending on your location this will be approximately around the time of 10am-4pm in the summer months. If you can plan to exercise your horses in the morning or evening time, they will be much more comfortable!”

“When you do work with your horses utilize shaded areas – our favorite time is in the evening when the trees provide shade in the arena for us. If the arena doesn’t have a breeze, we may choose to ride out in the pastures that day to keep our horses more comfortable. Your horse’s performance will be much stronger when they aren’t battling overheating. If your horse isn’t in shape to handle working in the heat, make sure to build them up slowly.”

 Riding during the early morning hours, shortly after sunrise, can be a great option. The temperatures are usually cooler, and the sun is not yet at its peak intensity. This allows for a more comfortable riding experience and reduces the risk of overheating. Riding in the late evening, closer to sunset, is another favorable time. The temperatures tend to cool down as the day progresses, and the sun's intensity decreases.

Remember, every horse is different, and their tolerance to heat may vary. Factors such as age, fitness level, breed, and overall health can influence their ability to handle heat. It's essential to be mindful of your horse's well-being and adjust your riding and training plans accordingly during hot summer months.

Feed Salt and Electrolytes

“Just like humans, horses cool themselves down by sweating. They can sweat 2-4 gallons per hour when working in a hot & humid environment. Have you ever seen a horse when their sweat dries on their coat? They have a white residue remaining – its salt! To replace what they lost we need to provide salt and electrolytes. Salt and Electrolytes can be provided in a variety of ways for our horses.”

Salt Licks

“Horses can have access 24/7 to these in their pastures or stalls in either a block or hanging form”. Salt intake stimulates thirst in horses, which encourages them to drink more water. This is particularly important during hot weather or when horses are engaged in strenuous activities. By providing a salt lick, you can help ensure that your horse stays adequately hydrated.

Loose Salt

“Can be offered free choice or top dressed with your horses normal feed routine.” Horses have varying salt requirements based on factors such as their size, activity level, and environmental conditions. Free choice loose salt allows each horse to self-regulate their salt intake based on their individual needs. Some horses may naturally consume more salt than others, and providing it freely allows them to meet their specific requirements.

Electrolytes

“There are products you can top dress with your horses normal feed routine but electrolytes also come in convenient paste forms as well so you can provide your horse an extra boost on the days they need it!” Electrolytes are minerals that carry an electric charge when dissolved in a liquid, such as water or bodily fluids. In the context of the equine world, electrolytes are essential for maintaining various bodily functions in horses. The primary electrolytes in horses are sodium (Na+), chloride (Cl-), potassium (K+), calcium (Ca2+), and magnesium (Mg2+)

Horses lose electrolytes through sweating, urine, feces, and saliva. During intense exercise, hot weather, or stressful situations, horses may lose significant amounts of electrolytes, which can lead to imbalances and potential health issues. Supplementing electrolytes, either through natural dietary sources or commercial electrolyte products, can help replenish these losses and maintain proper electrolyte balance.

Featuring : Tough 1 Himalayan Rock Salt #88-4506 | Redmond Equine-Ahi Rock Crushed Salt #21251935 | OE Nutraceuticals Nitro #OE-NITRO | Horse Health Products Apple Dex Electrolytes #75110

“We can apply all these tips and still get an overheated horse during temperature spikes and hot sunny days. If your horse does get overheated you can cool them down by stopping your exercise or activity, getting them to shade if available, applying a steady stream of water to their head, back, neck, rump and legs from a water hose until your horse is cool, and putting them in front of a fan and have them rest. Once they are cooled off check their water source, provide electrolytes, and allow them back to their routine. Be cautious and aware of your horse’s fitness level and how they handle working in the heat. You can adjust your program, build up their stamina slowly, or switch the times you work them until the heat of the summer cools off.”

Amanada Backlund - with Topwind Ranch