by Susie Gilliland

Created on: July 31, 2008   Last Updated: September 26, 2010

Summer is upon us and with season comes the danger of your horse becoming overheated especially after strenuous activity. It is important to properly cool your horse during as well as after any physically strenuous activity. There are many basic and simple steps to follow to help you recognize, prevent and treat heat stress. Here is some insight into the proper way to cool your horse after strenuous activities so that you can keep your horse in top shape for future rides.

Proper cooling begins with simply making sure your horse is physically fit and ready for whatever activity you will be asking of them. Making sure your horse is fit to achieve what you are asking him to do is a simple but important step. Being fit is an important key to a successful ride and greatly aids in the cooling down process. This step will also have your horse become accustomed to the heat and the kind of exercise you are requiring of them.

Next, you should take your horses temperature before you begin, during the ride or activity, and then when you are finished. Know your horses "Cooled Down" temperature before going out this way you will more easily be able to recognize when you horse may be becoming overheated. Carry a thermometer in your riding pants or somewhere safe where it will not easily fall out during your ride. Note than if your horses' temperature is over 103 F than your horse is becoming overheated and will need to be cooled down.

Make sure your horse is properly hydrated before your ride and carry electrolytes with you during a ride or event to aid in the cooling down process. Place your horse in a shaded area to begin cooling them down properly. Take your horses' temperature to determine how hot they are. Continue taking your horses temperature in intervals through out the cooling down process. Your horse should drop a degree C approximately every 8-10 minutes during the cooling down process.

You will need the following equipment to begin cooling down method:

1) Large supply of water and additional water on hand from a hose or large bucket.

2) A shaded area to perform cooling

3) A few extra hands to help hold the horse and to aid in cooling down each side.

Start to cool your horse directly after exercise; you may use ice against the neck to aid in cooling process but Do Not use a wet towel. The towel will act as insulation and hinder any heat loss you are trying to accomplish.

Generously apply cold water to every part of the body including the hind quarters where a majority of the heat is stored. Do not scrape off the excess water just continue to apply liberal amount for 30-60 seconds. Keeps your horse moving every 30-60 seconds to encourage good blood flow while you continue to apply moderate amounts of water to the body. The walking and cooling cycle is essential and aids in the cooling procedure.

Continue this rotation until your horses' temperature is at or is slightly below 101 degrees Fahrenheit. Finally, keep in mind to give your horse small amounts of water during any strenuous ride. Try not to allow your horse to stand for long periods while being physically active. Avoid the temptation to give your horse any ice cold water. Make sure to warm up your horses' muscles for at least 30 minutes before any physically demanding ride. Water disperses quickly in your horses stomach so proper hydration is vital.

As always part of enjoying your horse and the time you spend with them is proper care and concern for there well being. Follow these simple steps and your horse will avoid over heating, evade heat stress and perform to the best of the ability.

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