In every issue of Horse & Rider you'll find articles on training by the country's leading experts, the latest on equine health care from top veterinarians, trail riding tips from savvy back country riders, and much more!
Hot weather, hard ground, dry hooves, bruised soles. Attend to your horse’s summer hoof needs, and you’ll head off foot problems. Here are key points to consider. Hard Ground Summer’s heat can result in rock-hard, compacted ground. To protect your horse’s hooves (and his legs) from concussive injuries, keep your arena’s footing watered and well-worked. Out on the trail, be choosy about the ground you ride over, avoiding the hardest, most unforgiving terrain. If your horse is barefoot, hoof boots may be especially advisable in the summertime to help protect his feet. Whether your horse is shod or barefoot, regularly check his soles for bruising over the summer. Catching and helping to heal a sole bruise early on can head off a painful, slow-to-heal abscess. Dry Hooves Sweltering summertime climates…
Q Here in the Southwest, I worry about my horse in the summer. I trail ride early, but I don’t always make it back before the day really heats up. How can I keep my horse cool? What are the signs of overheating? Any tips for riders, too? Janie Florence via e-mail H&R: Janie, the fact that you’re asking this question tells me that you’re already planning ahead and considering your horse. That’s great. Riding in the heat can be a challenge, especially in the South or Southwest. I grew up in Florida and remember riding every day of the year, even in the heat and humidity. The horses could get hot easily, and riding gear wasn’t lightweight, especially the full English and show-jumping gear. During Florida’s summer, there’s so much…
Summer means you’re enjoying long trail rides, and maybe competing in endurance rides or competitive trail rides. Before you go, ensure that your horse won’t become overheated or dehydrated, conditions that can lead to serious health consequences. Here, I’ll explain how to head off four hot-weather hazards: 1) on-trail crisis, 2) overheating, 3) dehydration, and 4) heat-index risks. For each hazard, I’ll tell you how to avoid it and why this works, then give you on-trail techniques and an expert tip. Next, I’ll outline signs of heat stress/dehydration. Finally, I’ll explain the immediate steps to take if your horse becomes overheated/dehydrated despite your best efforts. Even if trail riding isn’t your summer activity, you’ll want to read on. Each of these hazards can arise in arena riding and competition, too.…
