With temperatures soaring across the UK, The British Horse Society (BHS) are reminding horse owners to be extra vigilant in the hot weather.
The equine charity warns of the dangers to horses from high temperatures, urging owners/carers to make sure their horses have plenty of cool, fresh water and adequate shade, as well as high-factor SPF protection.
Gemma Stanford, Director of Horse Care and Welfare at The British Horse Society, explains: “During hot weather spells, a number of steps need to be taken to ensure horses are kept comfortable and healthy. Poor management can lead to lethargy, sunburn, dehydration, and in severe cases heat stroke.
It’s important to increase your horse’s water intake the same way we increase ours when it’s hot. Water has a key role in your horse’s digestive system, so it’s vital that providing plenty of clean, fresh water is a top priority.
Alongside this, it is important that shelter and shade is available in hot weather. If you have the facilities, stabling horses through the hottest parts of the day, providing their stable remains cool, is an option to consider.”
The British Horse Society also advises that:
- Hosing or pouring with cold water can help horses to cool down in hot weather.
- High-factor SPF sun cream is applied liberally to sensitive areas, including the nose.
- Steps are taken to reduce your horses’ exposure to flies.
- You are able to identify signs of heat-related illness.
For further information and advice on exercising, travelling and competing in hot weather, visit www.bhs.org.uk/about-us/latest-news/horses-need-sun-protection-too
If you have any concerns for a horse’s welfare or would like advice about your own horse, The British Horse Society offers a free horse care and welfare helpline at 02476 840517 or email welfare@bhs.org.uk. To donate or to find out more about the BHS’s welfare work, go to bhs.org.uk.
