How to Effectively Reduce the Chances of Heat Stress in Horses?
March 29th, 2024
It’s time to review the different ways to tackle the summer heat on our equestrian farm. One important aspect we must not miss out on is the health of our horses. The rising temperature stresses out humans as well as animals and can cause dehydration and heat stress that can be fatal. As we are on the verge of summer, it is time that we incorporate certain changes in our day-to-day farm management to ensure the safety of our horses during summer. Summer calls for uncomfortable weather with extreme heat and humidity, which can make the horses ill. In this post, we have pointed out some effective ways to introduce horse stall kits to reduce the chances of heat stress in horses.
Horses are usually strong and active animals who cope well with the changing weather and temperature variations. However, there is nothing wrong with offering some special attention and extra care to ensure they are fit and fine with the rising temperatures. Let’s find out:
Pay attention to hydration needs
One of the most essential requirements in barns is to ensure access to fresh water year-round. Water is very important for the horses, and incorporating an automated watering system ensures that your horses do not remain dehydrated. Moreover, with hot weather, the horse’s water intake almost doubles. Thus, it becomes essential to provide your horses with easy access and an adequate amount of water.
Better ventilation and air circulation
Most equine experts swear by the importance of air circulation and daylight exposure in a horse barn. From cutting down on energy expenses to ensuring a healthy and hygienic environment, proper ventilation plays a key role in a barn. Needless to say, in addition to the use of fans and exhaust, the natural ventilation helps keep the barn comfortable and your horse cool. Ventilation is also essential to maintain a hygienic environment and keep away summer bugs and flies.
Schedule the turnout strategically
Summer does not mean that you will keep your horses indoors all the time. The outdoor grazing routine is equally important to keep the horses active and fit. In such a scenario, what you can do is strategize their turnout time for the cooler hours of the day. Additionally, you can install run-in shed stalls in the pasture farms so they can turn up to avoid the scorching heat whenever they feel like it. The best time is when there is maximum shade and minimal sunlight, preferably at dawn or twilight.
Include electrolyte supplements
If you suspect that your horses are dehydrated or feeling under the weather, it’s time that you make some changes to their diet. One of the most effective additions is providing electrolyte supplements by consulting the vet. Mix the electrolyte powder in their morning feed or with water to hydrate them. However, it is recommended to seek medical attention in severe cases of dehydration.
Ride early to avoid the heat
When it is summer, and the temperature is really high, you must take out your equines from the horse stall kits only when it’s early in the day. Choose the dawn hours for a riding session to make it comfortable for your horses. Moreover, your horse will appreciate it if you use a shorter trail and a lighter tack for the session, prioritizing their comfort. It is also recommended to introduce a proper cooling down session after a ride and offer a cold shower for comfort.
Contact Ulrich for run-in sheds
These simple tips can be very effective in keeping your horses comfortable throughout the harsh summers and preventing incidents of heat stress. Now, if you are considering introducing run-in shed stalls in your pasture farms for the summer, you must contact Ulrich for prefab run-in sheds at factory-direct prices. Ulrich is a family-owned business with over 50 years of experience in manufacturing horse shelters and delivering nationwide. Ulrich barns are made in America and designed with 12 GA 3″ wide base channels anchored every 4′ to ensure structural strength and integrity. Visit the website now for more details.
