Home » Seasonal Horse Care Guides » Summer Horse Care Guide
As the temperature starts to rise and the sun shines brighter, it’s time to start thinking about getting your horse summer ready. From pest control to feed supplements, there are several things you can do to ensure your horse stays healthy and comfortable during the hot summer months.
Below, we’ll cover everything you need to know to get your horse ready for summer.
Summer is the time when flies, mosquitoes, and other insects come out in full force. These pesky insects can cause a range of health problems for your horse, including skin irritations and infections. Here’s how to deal with these annoyances…
Fly sprays are an essential tool for keeping flies and other insects away from your horse. There are many different types of fly sprays available, including natural and chemical options. It’s important to choose a spray that is safe for your horse and effective against the pests in your area.
Fly sheets are another great option for keeping flies and other insects away from your horse. These lightweight sheets are designed to provide protection while still allowing air to circulate, keeping your horse cool and comfortable.
Fly masks are an excellent way to protect your horse’s face and eyes from flies and other insects. These masks are designed to fit snugly around your horse’s head, providing a barrier against pests while still allowing for clear vision.
During the hot summer months, it’s important to make sure your horse stays hydrated. Dehydration can lead to a range of health problems, including colic and heat exhaustion. Here are some tips for keeping your horse hydrated.
Make sure your horse has access to clean, fresh water at all times. In hot weather, you may need to change the water more frequently to keep it cool and refreshing.
During the summer months, your horse may need additional supplements to support their health and well-being. Here are some supplements to consider:
Salt is an essential nutrient that your horse needs to maintain proper hydration levels. You can provide salt in the form of a salt licks / block or add it to your horse’s feed.
Your horse may need additional vitamins and minerals during the summer months to support their overall health. You can provide these in the form of a supplement or by choosing a feed that is specifically formulated for summer.
Regular grooming is essential for keeping your horse healthy and comfortable during the summer months. Here are some grooming tips:
Regular bathing can help keep your horse cool and comfortable during the hot summer months. Make sure to use a gentle shampoo that is safe for your horse’s skin.
During the summer months, your horse’s mane and tail may become tangled and matted. Regular brushing and combing can help keep them looking neat and tidy.
Hot weather can cause your horse’s hooves to become dry and brittle. Regular trimming and moisturising can help keep them healthy and strong.
Maintaining a well-managed pasture is crucial for the overall health and happiness of your horses. By implementing expert insights on pasture rotation, forage selection, and maintaining a nutritious grazing environment, you can ensure that your horse thrives during the summer season.
Pasture Rotation
Pasture rotation involves dividing your pasture into separate sections and rotating your horses between them. This practice offers several benefits.
Firstly, it prevents overgrazing, which can lead to nutrient depletion and bare patches.
Secondly, it allows forage to regrow in previously grazed areas.
Lastly, it helps control parasites by interrupting their lifecycle.
Getting your horse summer ready requires a combination of pest control, hydration, feed supplements, and grooming. By following these tips, you can help ensure that your horse stays healthy and comfortable during the hot summer months.
Athena is our Equine specialist, who has been riding and competing (predominantly in show jumping) since the age of 6 years old.
She also has a diploma in Equine management and has 3 horses of her own.
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