Stay Cool In and Out the Saddle This Summer

With the heatwave upon us our main aim this week is to keep ourselves and our horses as cool as possible. Our animals can suffer from the heat as much as we can so with the soaring temperatures we need to prioritise their welfare. If you're feeling a bit overwhelmed as to how to manage the summer sun with horses, here are a few of our top tips to help you stay cool both in and out of the saddle. 

Adjust Riding Times and Training Schedules 

With weather as hot as this, we have found that riding first thing in the morning is best as this tends to be the coolest part of the day. Later in the evening is often also advised but here in Hertfordshire it is still proving quite hot well into the night. Think about letting your horse have an easy few days, with lighter work rather than intense schooling that you can both enjoy. If you have a nice hack to a shaded river then take advantage and go for a splash. I have already seen lots of riding schools and shows announcing they are closing for a few days this week which is good to see that horse welfare is being prioritised. If you have a riding lesson booked this week speak to the riding school and see what their plans are. 

Dress For The Weather

Horse riding is one of those sports where the safety gear is of course essential but it will increase your body temperature! Hopefully you have a ventilated riding hat and a pair of non insulated riding boots. Choosing the right riding clothing will help to keep you comfortable in the saddle when it's hot. Horse riding base layers are a good option due to their technical, moisture wicking breathable fabrics. We'd also recommend choosing some riding tights as they tend to be a lighter material than jodhpurs and breeches. If your little one has a riding lesson then arms should still be covered but you could take them a change of clothes for afterward so they can pop on a pony t shirt to freshen up and cool down.  

Choose Breathable Socks and Gloves   

Accessories make all the difference too. For socks why not choose some competition riding socks as these are made with a thinner leg made from finely spun fibres whilst still offering support to the foot. Summer riding gloves are also available featuring flexible mesh and a finer weave across the hand to enhance airflow. Opt for the Coldstream Swinton Combi Mesh Children's Riding Gloves for a junior rider or the Coldstream Swinton Combi Mesh Summer Riding Gloves for yourself. 

Protect Yourself and Your Horse 

Don't forget your sunscreen! Apply it liberally and take it with you to reapply. A lightweight cap may also be of benefit if you have plenty of stable chores to do. Depending on your horse, they may also be in need of some sun protection. Any pink skin on your horse will need protecting from the sun. Use sun block and some fly masks and rugs can offer sun protection too. 

Keep Hydrated 

It sounds obvious but hydration is really important for both you and your horse. Take a water bottle with you to the stables. The Tyrrell Katz Horses Drinks Bottle is great for younger riders. Make extra effort for drink regularly - don't wait to feel thirsty. Its also important to encourage your horse to drink more. Refresh their water to make sure its appealing. Water buckets sitting out in the sun soon heat up! Another good idea is to offer an additional water buffet where you can add herbs (such as mint) that your horse enjoys. If you horse has a mash feed make it extra sloppy so they take in extra water that way. 

Get the Hose Out 

The best way to cool your horse down (and yourself) is to get the hose out. Running water is best and despite what you might have read you do not need to scrape the excess water off. We will be doing this multiple times a day with our little herd!

Look Out for the Warning Signs With Your Horse 

Whilst we can do everything right and take as many precautions as possible, some horses will still suffer in the heat. Look out especially for overweight and older horses. When the temperatures soar, these are some of the warning signs to look out for. If you have any concerns please do ring your vet   

• Lethargy
• Fast, shallow breathing that looks like panting 
• An elevated heart rate
• Eating and drinking less
  
• Urinating less and dark urine - dehydration 
• Muscle spasms
  

We spend so much time moaning the winter and the mud so its important to enjoy the summer with your horse. If it's too hot to ride then enjoy some time with your equine bestie, bathing or teaching them some gentle groundwork. Kids will love playing at the stables and learning about pony care. With the right clothing, plenty of hydration and a little planning, you can stay cool, comfortable and safe in and our of the saddle all season long.