As many of us in the northern hemisphere head into the hottest part of the year, Winter becomes a distant memory. For those horse owners in cold Winter climates, the season poses serious horse care challenges that we would just as soon forget.
I was reminded, though, that Summer comes with its own set of issues regarding equine care and welfare. Some recent articles I read listed Summer horse-health concerns and prevention/management suggestions regarding
- Heat/Humidity Stress
- Dehydration
- Access to salt
- Insect bit hypersensitivity
- Pasture-Associated Asthma
- Sunburn
- Photosensitization
- Hard Footing
Between caring for my own horses, former foster horses and the horses at the therapeutic riding center where I used to work, I have some direct experience with all those issues.
It’s easy, though, to forget about an issue when you currently have a horse(s) that seems to sail through Summer. But as our horses age, when we bring in a new horse or if we move to a different climate, we may see issues appear that we never saw before.
For that reason, I think it is good for all of us horse folks to be aware of the challenges that each season might present, even if we don’t currently deal with them. If something is on our radar, we are more likely to identify it properly when it finally comes into view.
Want to read more about Summer horse care challenges? Here’s a few resources to get you started:
- Read online at TheHorse.com Five Summer Horse Health Risks and When The Body Attacks: Lumps, bumps, coughs, wheals, and wheezes: a basic overview of equine allergies
- Download the Equus Magazine Online Extra PDF 10 Facts About Hot-Weather Horse Care
- See this bulletin from the University of Minnesota on Caring For Horses in Hot Weather
- If you can get your hands on the Summer 2022 Issue of Equus Magazine (either the printed or digital versions), there’s a lengthy article titled “Make Summer A Breeze” that is worth the read.
- Find Summer hints and tips at The Backyard Horse Blog on Pinterest “Summer Horse Care” Board
What is your most challenging Summer horse care issue?
The Backyard Horse Blog 