The summer is here, and as we all enjoy a bit of al-fresco dining and soaking up the sun thoughts turn to our horses, and how well they cope when the temperature rises. The rise in temperature can place an extra burden on horses, especially those with busy competition schedules who may be regularly training, competing and travelling.  It is crucial therefore to make sure they stay well hydrated, and comfortable when the temperature rises.

Working your horse during hot weather can result in prolonged sweating, so for horses in work consider exercising in the morning on a hot day when the temperature is cooler. Try to ride before 9am, and in extreme conditions it may be better for you and your horse to take a few days off.

As a horse can lose as much as 10 – 15 litres of water an hour in sweat it is vital that they have access to plenty of fresh water at all times.  Where this is not always possible, especially for horses travelling and competing, it is important that they are offered water at frequent intervals.

For horses reluctant to drink specially prepared soaked feeds such as Rowen Barbary Treat Mashes can be fed to help improve fluid intake. These are available in a range of flavours including Banana, Beetroot, Carrot and Herbal and are ideal to use post training, when travelling or competing. Available in re-sealable pouches they are a must have to help keep your horse hydrated this summer.

Although not all horses need electrolytes, with maintenance amounts typically met through forage or feed, for horses in harder work and sweating on a regular basis electrolyte supplementation is recommended. Rowen Barbary Re-Hydrate has been specifically formulated to help maintain fluid and electrolyte balance, providing all the necessary minerals including Potassium, Magnesium and Sodium Chloride on a readily absorbed, water soluble Glucose base. This is designed to be fed according to the intensity of work and can be fed whenever the horse sweats, on an ongoing basis or before, during and after competition days.