Heat of Summer and Competition

Performance horses in all disciplines, from racing to western pleasure, are expected to deliver optimum performance all year around, regardless of temperature. Allowing the horse to deliver optimum performance in the summer under conditions of high temperature and humidity presents several challenges to the horse owner. Proper management of working conditions, water consumption and feeding practices can help meet the challenge.

First, avoid working the horses during the warmest part of the day when possible. Early morning and evening rides are better for both horse and rider. Horses confined during the day should have shade, ventilation and fresh clean water. This applies to horses in stalls, at shows or in the pasture.

Horse Hydration

Horses generally drink less water in cold weather than in summer, partly because they're not sweating and needing to replace that fluid. They also don't feel like drinking when they're cold - especially if the water is cold, chilling them more.

They need a constant and dependable supply of water, however, for good health and proper digestive function. If contents of the gut become too dry, food movement is hindered and the horse becomes impacted.

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Horse Feed & Supplements

Feeds provide animals with the protein, carbohydrates, fiber, vitamins, and minerals they need. Find the information you need to keep your cattle healthy.