How to Survive a Heatwave

The temperatures are rising daily in the Pacific Northwest right now so I thought I would put together some quick valuable information and resources to help you all and your best friends survive the heat.

The most important point to note is to make sure your horses have access to shade and plenty of cool water at this time.

Bend Equine Medical Center provided the following advice:

- Electrolyte supplementation can help encourage horses to drink more and stay hydrated. Look for electrolytes with little to no sugar. However not all horses like electrolytes so if you are adding them make sure ti offer your horses a plain water option as well.

- Some horses will rescue guard (not allow others to approach) water to consider having multiple water sources for even small herds. The same goes for access to shelter and shade. Make sure all horses in your herd can get out of the sun

- Your horses may enjoy an occasional cold hose a a treat during the long hot days

- Exercise can put horses at risk added for heat stress during hot weather, so ride in the cooler part of the day if possible. Also be aware of heat stress signs in horses which can include profuse sweating OR less sweating than you would normally expect, incoordination or stumbling, rapid breathing, rapid pulse, rate that stays elevated even at rest and increased body temperature

- If your horse is exhibiting signs of heat stress, please move then to the shade, cold hose/sponge them and call your veterinarian for advice

Other Resources:

This article is a good read and provides good tips: Click here to read

Here is a informational poster you can print and put up in your barn: Click here to download