By: Callia Englund

1. Provide airflow and shade during the hottest parts of the day. Give your access to cover with a fan when the sun is out. Whether that is their stall, a shed, or a tree. Prioritize night time turnout.
2. Spray or sponge your horse off with cool water if they are at an uncomfortable temperature. Focus on areas like their jugular and between their hind legs. Ice and rubbing alcohol also help cool the horse down quicker.
3. Add electrolytes to your horse’s diet and always have access to fresh clean water. Make sure if you put it in their water, they still have plain water accessible as well.
4. Fly masks, fly sheets, fly boots, and fly spray will make them more happy and comfortable with the increase in bugs. It also protects them from the UV, preventing sunburns or damaged coats.
5. Pay attention when you are riding. Try to ride indoors during intense sun hours or keep exercise less intense. Temperature + Humidity percent = Horse Heat Index. Less than 130: You are in the clear to ride. 130-170: Be cautious. The heat index will compromise your horse’s ability to cool itself. 170 or above: Do not ride, It only takes less than 15 minutes of moderate exercise to raise your horse’s temperature to an unsafe level.