High Temps - Horse Safety
We live in one of the most extreme climates on earth. We have experienced temperatures up to 127 degrees. The question is, how can horses be cared for in that extreme heat? Strategic sprinkler placing helps, along with shade and excellent air ventilation.
Access to pasture in the heat is a must for horses. Freedom of movement and walking keeps their body systems as fit as possible, and encourages sweating. Slow release electrolytes are essential.
A sprinkler placed where it creates mud gives the horses a place to “mud up”, which is good bug control. And we never worry about grooming during these hot temps. The more mud, the better.
Obviously, access to cool water is essential during the hot temps. Try to keep water buckets and tubs out of the direct sun if possible.
Because of the sand and particles in the air in the desert, we are not fans of misting systems, which, due to the debris in the air, jam and quit working. Regular sprinklers bring the sand and particles to the ground, effectively cleaning the air around the sprinkler. The horses gravitate to the air there.
Air circulation is imperative. The more stagnant the air, the hotter it feels. That's why we keep horses out to pasture in extreme heat. Air circulation also allows for the "air conditioning" effect, which occurs in dry, desert air.
While hosing down a horse in 100-plus, dry temperatures, when the breeze starts, a wet horse will shiver since the air conditioning effect evaporates the water so quickly. It creates a cold air conditioning on their skin. People always laugh when they see horses in coolers to prevent shivering in 100 plus degrees!
Remember, when caring for horses in extreme heat, keep the list... Freedom of movement, air circulation, shade, sprinklers, and slow release electrolytes. And also a cooler, if needed, to calm the AC effect shivering.
For more information on Fresh Start Thoroughbred Lifecare, Inc., please go to www.freshstart-tblc.org