Managing Horses in the Heat Wave

Last month when the heat wave happened throughout the Midwest, the University of Kentucky put out an article about horse management during a heat wave. I thought it was good enough to share here!

Click here to read “Heat wave requires revising management strate for horses” by Laurie Lawrence.

Remember, when it’s hot outside keep an eye on your horses and your riders. Watch for signs of heat stress, heat exhaustion and heat stroke in every horse, rider, and volunteer involved. Remind everyone to drink lots of water and take breaks as needed. I try to keep standing around to a minimum because when you’re walking at least there’s a breeze!

Click here to read “Heat Emergencies in Humans; Heat Emergencies in Horses” By Willis Lamm, a great article about identifying and treating heat emergencies in both humans and horses.

Most barns have a rule that when the heat index gets above a certain degree, lessons are cancelled or done off horse. For example giving the horse a bath can be educational and a way to keep cool for both horse and student! Or doing a horse-related activity in an air-conditioned room, if available.

Next time I’ll post a list of off-horse skills to teach!

Good luck with the heat! What do you guys do with your horses and students when it gets hot?

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Note: This is not professional advice, this is a blog. I am not liable for what you do with or how you use this information. The activities explained in this blog may not be fit for every rider, riding instructor, or riding center depending on their current condition and resources. Use your best personal judgement!

One thought on “Managing Horses in the Heat Wave

  1. So sorry to hear about the heat wave…… thank you for the ideas!! We are wet and windy and cold…….. Winter in Tassie is always a bit miserable. The horses are knee deep in mud!!!! Will send some prayers for rain & a cool change your way. 🙂

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