Featured Article

HEAT STRESS MANAGEMENT

This time of year, as temperatures increase and we are doing more with our horses, it’s important to remember how the heat affects our equine friends. There are several factors that can influence how they handle the heat and how well they respond when asked to perform.

The most important factor in managing heat stress is water. An adult horse’s body composition (by weight) is approximately 65 % water. In young horses, it is even higher, going as high as 85% in neonates. And, while a horse can last almost a month without food, they can last only a few days without water. A normal non-working horse in moderate ambient conditions will generally consume 4-8 gallons of water daily. However, extremes of temperature, increased workloads, lactation and disease can increase water needs by as much as 300%. These figures are only for illustration. The general rule is a horse should have access to fresh, clean water at all times.

While not practical on long trips, you might consider taking water from home on day trips. The taste of water at different places can sometimes put a picky horse off from drinking. While most horses can learn to drink water from any source, bringing water from home may avoid dehydration and the associated performance and medical issues.

Another factor to consider in heat stress management is fitness/exercise level. Just as you would not be expected to go immediately from couch potato to triathlete, you should not expect your horse to go from pasture pet to hardened trail/performance animal overnight. Exercise should be introduced gradually and should be appropriate for the fitness level of the individual. During long rides or extended work, your horse should be given regular rest breaks and opportunities to drink. If your horse takes more than 4-5 minutes to recover normal pulse and respiratory rates (less than 48 beats and 24 breaths per minute), you should decrease both the length and intensity of his work. Water should be given to a hot horse a few swallows at a time until he cools completely. A hot horse allowed to drink to excess can be prone to abdominal upsets and laminitis. An extremely hot horse can be cooled off by applying cool water (with hose or sponge) down the midline of the back and along both sides of the neck.

Other factors to consider are shade and air movement. While not a requirement, shade on a hot day can help your horse be comfortable and deal with heat stress more easily. Trees or open sided shelters are preferable, as they allow air movement. If you must stall your horse during the heat or at shows, a fan on his stall front can help him cool off as well as improve air quality, both important factors in decreasing the stress associated with showing.

All things considered, heat stress management is mostly an issue of good horsemanship and common sense. A little knowledge and forethought should allow you and your horses to enjoy all Idaho has to offer this summer.

Any questions or comments can be directed to:

Danny Borders, DVM