Getting HOT, HOT, HOT!

Use these tips to keep your horse comfortable in the heat this summer

- VIVIAN LAUGHMAN

Every young rider loves having fun in the sun, enjoying a trail ride under the clear blue sky, wearing short sleeves and breathing in fresh air mixed with the smell of horses and sunscreen. But sometimes a fairytale summer day can take a turn for the worst when heat and humidity take their toll on your horse.

These five tips will help you keep him safe, cool, and happy when the temperature starts to rise. That way you can get back to enjoying the sunshine, rather than wishing for winter to return!

1. QUENCH 

The most important thing for a horse or pony in the summer is staying hydrated. They need constant access to clean, cool water. Some horses can be picky about whether they drink in their field or in their stall, so make sure anywhere your horse hangs out has plenty of water available.

Water troughs and buckets should be dumped, scrubbed, rinsed and refilled daily to prevent any algae from growing. It's also a good idea to test the temperature of outdoor water troughs (even with your hand)-a horse won't want to drink super-hot water. Keep outdoor water sources in the shade whenever possible.

Remember, if you wouldn't want to drink water from the trough or bucket, your horse won't either. Clean water is the key to keeping your horse happy in the heat.

2. REPLENISH