By Liz Foster
As a hot and humid summer conquers the United States, horses and riders face brutal heat that puts both parties at risk. When the weather outside becomes unbearably warm, competitions often waive jackets for riders, allowing them to show without wearing a heavy, dark coat. However, horses cannot simply shed a layer and cool down; they require much more attention and care to beat the heat.
Dr. Kate Echeverria, DVM, a veterinarian based in New England, spoke to the ways that riders can help their horses to better handle the sweltering temperatures and sticky humidity.
Spotting the Warning Signs of Heat Stroke
The first step is to be aware of your horse’s base temperature as not all horses are the same. Knowing your horse’s average temperature makes it easier to figure out if they are suffering from a dangerous affliction like heat stroke, or just being too warm to be comfortable.
While heat stroke is most often brought on by exercise, Dr. Echeverria remarked that horses can still face the ailment if they are in “an environment or a barn that’s very, very hot with poor airflow.”
Breaking Down the USEF Heat Index
USEF currently uses a “Heat Index” to measure the weather. The heat index is the “combined total of the temperature (in degrees Fahrenheit) and the humidity.” USEF advises that a total below 130 is suitable for competition, while numbers between 130 and 150 indicate that one should monitor their horse for signs of heat stress. If the number is between 150 and 180, it is “critical” to observe indicators of heat stress. USEF encourages “considering alternative competition times” if the heat index totals above 180.
However, there is no set rule that dictates whether a competition should be entirely canceled or postponed. While the decision to compete ultimately falls upon the exhibitor, horse shows have a responsibility to create a safe environment. Competition management has a duty to protect the health and welfare of both horses and riders.
“I think it’s helpful when the show makes those decisions, because people hate to scratch or miss a show,” said Dr. Echeverria.
The FEI’s guidelines concerning extreme heat emphasize that horse welfare must be prioritized over competitions, stating that shows must not take place in weather jeopardizes a horse’s health and wellbeing.
“It would be nice if there are ways for the show to try to either change the schedule or cancel the classes on days that it’s a risk for the horses,” she continued.
When it comes time to compete in the show itself, it may sometimes be best for a rider to withdraw, especially when the heat index soars above 180.
Fast and Effective Ways to Cool Your Horse
Dr. Echeverria also emphasized that traveling to horse shows in hot weather presents a risk because horses can easily overheat inside of a trailer. Furthermore, 10% of horse transport–related incidents are heatstroke-related, per a study by the Equine Veterinary Journal.
To aid a horse that’s suffering in the heat, Dr. Echeverria recommends cooling down the animal with a rinse of cold water. She noted that horses should be in good physical condition to better manage their health in extreme weather. Additional recommendations include proper feed, sufficient water, and the use of cooling fans to help evaporate sweat.
With temperatures rising each year, it’s necessary for owners and riders to take proper care of their animals and themselves. Both exhibitors and horse show management must prioritize human and animal welfare in order to handle the blistering summer heat.
