As the summer days get warmer and longer in New Jersey, it's important for horse owners to adapt their care routines to help their horses beat the heat. Knowledge and preparation can make all the difference in ensuring your horse's well-being during the hottest months of the year.
Remember, a horse's body can heat up rather quickly whether they're active or resting in the sun. Horses can't sweat like humans do, and an overheated horse could potentially face health risks such as dehydration, exhaustion, and in severe cases, heatstroke. Salt blocks or loose salts are essential during the warming months as horses lose salt through sweat. Try to provide access to fresh water at all times and occasionally offer a refreshing bath with a garden hose.
With warmer days, the grass is richer in sugars that can lead to obesity or metabolic issues in equines. We recommend transitioning your horse's diet to forage-based meals as a step to prevent such problems. To assist with nutritional balance, The Hungry Puppy stocks purveyed feeds like Triple Crown and Nutrena, known for their quality horse feeds. These brands provide a wide range of nutritionally balanced options to help maintain your horse's weight and overall health during summer.
An additional concern horse owners face in the summer is the onslaught of annoying and potentially harmful insects. A good fly spray is a must-have for summer horse care, and at The Hungry Puppy, our Personal Pet Consultant can recommend effective products like Farnam or Pyranha that suit your specific needs. Beyond fly sprays, consider fly masks, sheets, and boots to provide your horse extra protection from pesky flies and mosquitos.
While it may be tempting to work or exercise your horse the same way you do in cooler months, it's vital to adjust to the summer heat. Plan workouts during the cooler parts of the day, like early morning or late evening, to avoid the peak heat periods. Remind yourself of the phrase "taste of the wild ", which embodies the principle of observing and adapting to the natural rhythms of the environment. Practice this philosophy in your horse care, allowing their body to dictate their summer activities level.
In summary, managing your horse's summer care involves hydration, a balanced diet, insect management, and considerate scheduling of their activities. As a trusted local pet expert, The Hungry Puppy is here for your summer horse care needs and beyond. Let's work together and make this summer season a healthy and enjoyable one for our equine friends.