Stabling : While stabling can help prevent overheating and offer time away from the sun , owners should be aware they can often become too warm . If stables lack ventilation and generally hold heat well in the winter , this may not be the best option for the horse . A field lined with mature trees offers a haven away from the heat ; however , be mindful of flies and other nuisances .
Feed : If you want to make sure the horse takes in extra water , you can try soaking their hay or adding excess water to their hard food . Make sure hay is soaked immediately before feeding to avoid excess time spent in water . Hay soaked for too long can cause a loss of nutrients . Soakable feeds can also offer assistance in hydrating a horse reluctant to take in water .
Riding : To help prevent excess sweating , ride either first thing in the morning or the evening when the day ' s heat is not as prominent . If a horse has been exercising in the sun , which is sometimes unavoidable , it will naturally lose electrolytes which will need to be replenished .
Replacing Electrolytes
Electrolytes are essential to the proper functioning of the digestive system and muscles , especially on recovery from exercise .
When competing , for example , the horse is likely to sweat for an excessive period . During this time , out of the five electrolyte minerals , horses predominantly lose Chloride , Potassium and Sodium . These will need to be replenished via supplementation .
Adding a spoonful of table salt to the horse ' s water or mixed into feed can help replace electrolytes for those horses in regular work . Salt licks can be helpful but will not provide adequate intake should the horse sweat excessively .
The best way to replace electrolytes is to supplement the horse via feed , water or paste . If not all , many of the industry ’ s top supplement manufacturers offer products that will replace electrolytes lost dependant on requirements .
If concerns arise surrounding severe hydration , veterinary advice should be sought immediately .
40 • EVERYTHING HORSE MAGAZINE : JULY 2021