Avoiding heat stress in horses

We all know the age old adage “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” and this certainly rings true for heat stress in our animals. Knowing the signs of heat stress and how to prevent them can save you a scary situation this summer.

Here are some ways to avoid heat stress:

·         Provide plenty of fresh, clean water.  Make sure your horses’ water is free from algea, insects and bird droppings.  Horses tend to not drink warm or hot water so changing the water out once a day or keeping it in a shaded area will help keep the temperature down.  These things will help promote drinking throughout the day.

·         Work your horses early in the morning or late in the evening when the temperatures are cooler.

·         If you do work your horses during high temps and high humidity, monitor them closely for signs of heat stress and provide a long, slow cool down period.

·         Provide shade for your horses.  This can be in the form of a structure or trees, just somewhere to get out of the sun.

·         If your horse is in the barn during the day make sure they have plenty of airflow.

Signs of a heat stroke may include the following:

·         Rapid breathing, rapid pulse

·         Stumbling, weakness, depression

·         Body temperature as high as 105 to 107 F

·         Refusal to eat or work

·         Dry skin and dehydration

·         In severe cases, a horse may collapse or go into convulsions or a coma

If you think your horse may be experiencing heat stress, contact your vet immediately to determine what steps you should take to cool your horse down.  Most of the time supportive care can turn a heat stressed animal around with little medical intervention, but it is always a good idea to consult your vet for their recommendations.