Summer Horse Care Tips

If we could ask all of our animal companions what their favorite seasons are, it’s probably safe to say that horses would vote for summer. After all, Silver gets to eat fresh grass: his favorite thing ever. There is a downside to the summer season, however. The heat can be hard on animals, and horses are no exception. Read on as a Dawsonville, GA vet offers some summer horse care tips.

Weather Protection

Make sure Silver always has access to shady areas. If there are no trees in your paddock or pasture, consider erecting a three-sided shed. If nothing else, a shade sail or shade canopy will help.

Water

Horses should always have fresh water available. You may want to add some electrolytes to your horse’s water when it gets really hot out. Be diligent about scrubbing buckets, as germs and dust accumulate very quickly in hot weather. Salt licks can also help encourage

horses to drink.

Ventilation

Keeping the air flowing inside your barn or stable is also very important. If you don’t have fans installed, it’s definitely worth your while to get some!

Schedule

You may need to adjust your riding schedule a bit when it’s really hot. Take Silver out in the mornings or evenings, when it’s cooler. Avoid overexerting him in the heat. We don’t recommend riding when it’s over 95.

Cool Downs

Cool downs are especially important in this weather. Silver may need to be hosed down after his workout. Never put your horse away hot!

Flies

Flies are one of the main downsides for horse people at this time of year. Getting your manure piles picked up and removed regularly will help with this. You can also try spraying your stable down with apple cider vinegar. Hosing your horse off daily will also help, as it removes sweat, which attracts flies. Fly masks and sheets can also work: just check them regularly to make sure they aren’t getting gunky. 

Parasite Control

Keep up with parasite control! Breaking up and raking out manure to expose it to the sun can help kill parasites, so if you drag your fields, do it while it’s hot. The sun will dry out and kill parasites and eggs once they’re exposed.

Please reach out with questions or concerns about your pet’s health or care. As your Dawsonville, GA animal clinic, we are here for you.