Stafford Equine Veterinary Services

If you feel hot, your horse feels even hotter.

Horses have a much harder time processing heat and humidity than humans. And among horses, foals usually cannot handle as much heat as adult horses. A mare may be fine, but her foal may be getting sick from being out on a hot day.

Horses with heavy muscling or excess fat or in poor condition will also be more susceptible to heat exhaustion. Keep in mind that exercise is a major source of body heat and strenuous work on a hot, humid day can lead to problems in a short period of time for even the best-conditioned horse.

Does this mean you should not ride on a hot and humid day? Not necessarily. It just means you should take precautions and use common sense. And remember: don't push it! If your horse looks tired, it’s time for a drink, a cold bath, and a break in the shade.

We might only be five days into summer, but the heat has already made its presence known in most parts of the country! ☀️

As the temperatures heat up, unfortunately some of our equine friends struggle to sweat properly in the summer heat, which can put them at an increased risk of heat stress.

Though there is limited evidence in regard to effective treatments for horses diagnosed with anhidrosis (the inability to sweat properly), there are a few therapies that have been proposed to help, including offering horses dark beer!

Overall, watch closely for signs of heat stress if your horse is diagnosed with anhidrosis. During the summer months, monitor your horse's response to the heat and ensure they are sweating an appropriate amount. If you have concerns about your horse's ability to sweat, please contact your veterinarian.

Thank you to the Horse Owner Education Committee for providing this information.