Heat Alert:

Following are a few suggestions to help avoid serious heat-related problems:

1. Make sure the horse has at least 20-25 gallons of water available. Do not rely on automatic waterers alone as sometimes these can be accidentally turned off or the metal components can get so hot that that a horse will not touch them.
2. Do not work horses in the heat of the day if at all possible.
3. Cool the animal off well, by rinsing and then hand-walking until dry, before feeding again.
4. Moist feeds such as soaked wheat bran, sugar beet pulp (always soak for a minimum of 3 hours) or moistened pellets are appropriate for horses on hard work, or horses that have been prone to impactions.
5. Electrolyte supplementation is appropriate for horses engaging in strenuous activity for prolonged periods, but must be accompanied by access to fresh water.
6. Provide shade of some kind if at all possible.
7. Be observant-do not overwork a horse that is not fit to handle heat stress. If your horse appears to be stressed (panting, reluctant to move) do the following:
A: Get off and walk to a shaded area
B. Provide water to drink
C. Hose or sponge off as soon as possible (tepid water is
D. Provide electrolytes.
If symptoms persist you should contact the emergency doctor on call immediately and discuss the case with him.
Have a nice summer and enjoy your horse safely!