The summer brings longer daylight hours and outdoor riding opportunities, but it's important to be mindful of the heat and humidity. Here are some tips for preparing yourself and your horse to handle high summer temperatures.

For the Rider:

Wear light-colored, technical fabrics that allow your skin to breathe and wick away perspiration. Look for brands that offer temperature or moisture management, such as Coolmax, Airmax, Cooltex, and Dri-Lex.

Consider lightweight riding tights and gloves with wicking benefits to keep cool and comfortable.

Choose helmets with built-in ventilation features to help regulate body temperature.

For Showing:

Look for advanced technical fabrics in show jackets and shirts that are designed to keep you cool and comfortable while riding. Consider garments made of breathable, lightweight fabrics with wicking properties, such as CoolMax.

Stay Hydrated:

Drink plenty of water throughout the day to combat dehydration. Be mindful of signs of dehydration such as dry mouth, headache, hunger, and fatigue.

For Your Horse:

Consider the heat index, which combines temperature and humidity, to determine suitable working conditions for your horse. Take into account your horse's fitness level and condition before riding on hot days. Avoid overtaxing horses, especially those who are sporadically worked, old, overweight, have medical conditions, or have recently moved from a cooler region. Ensure your horse has access to fresh, clean water at all times. Monitor water intake to ensure your horse stays well-hydrated.

Provide adequate shade and ventilation in the barn and turnout areas. Consider using fans and misters to help keep your horse cool in hot weather.

When riding, be mindful of the ground temperature. Hot asphalt or sand can burn your horse's hooves, so try to ride on cooler surfaces in the early morning or evening.

Grooming and Coat Care:

Regular grooming will help keep your horse's coat healthy and free of excess hair, which can trap heat.

If appropriate in your discipline, consider using a lightweight summer sheet to protect your horse from the sun and insects while allowing airflow.

Rest and Recovery:

After riding, allow your horse time to cool down and recover in the shade. Offer water and monitor your horse closely for signs of heat stress or exhaustion, such as excessive sweating, rapid breathing, or reluctance to move.

Overall, be mindful of the heat and its effects on both you and your horse. Pay attention to signs of heat stress in both yourself and your horse, and take appropriate measures to stay safe and comfortable during your summer riding adventures.

Of course! Here are some additional tips for caring for your horse during the summer months:

Nutrition:

Adjust your horse's feeding schedule to avoid feeding during the hottest parts of the day, as this can contribute to heat stress.

Provide access to salt/mineral blocks to encourage adequate salt intake, which is important for maintaining hydration.

Exercise:

Consider adjusting your riding schedule to avoid the hottest times of the day. Early morning or evening rides can be more comfortable for both you and your horse.

Take frequent breaks during rides to allow your horse to rest and cool down.

Fly and Insect Control:

Use fly masks, sheets, and repellents to protect your horse from biting insects and the irritation they cause.

Keep manure and soiled bedding cleaned up to minimize fly breeding areas.

Hoof Care:

Check your horse's hooves regularly for signs of dryness or cracking. Consider using hoof moisturizers to keep the hooves healthy in hot, dry conditions.

Keep the footing in turnout areas and riding arenas well-maintained to reduce the risk of hoof issues.

Emergency Preparedness:

Be prepared for extreme weather events, such as heatwaves or severe storms. Have a plan in place to keep your horse cool and safe during such conditions.

By taking these steps to care for your horse during the summer, you can help ensure that your equine companion remains comfortable, healthy, and happy throughout the season.