Beat the Heat: Summer Horse Care Tips Every Rider Should Know

When the summer sun is blazing and the flies are buzzing like it's their full-time job, horse owners everywhere start asking the same question: how do I keep my horse cool, comfortable, and not totally miserable in the heat? From hydration to hoof care (and yes, bug battles), warm-weather riding comes with its own set of seasonal challenges. 

The good news? With a few smart tweaks to your routine and the right gear in your tack trunk, your horse can thrive all summer long—without turning into a sweaty, cranky mess.

Here are the summer horse care tips every equestrian should know (and your horse will thank you for).

1. Hydration is Everything
Let’s be honest: your horse isn’t exactly reaching for a reusable water bottle, so it’s on us to make sure they’re drinking enough. Dehydration is one of the most common (and totally preventable) summer health risks for horses. In hot weather, an adult horse can guzzle 15+ gallons of water a day—more if they’re working.

Boost Hydration With Electrolytes: Got a heavy sweater on your hands? Electrolyte supplements can help replace lost minerals and encourage your horse to keep drinking. You’ll find plenty of palatable options—powders, pastes, even flavored blocks—that make hydration less of a chore.

Pro Tip: Toss a collapsible water bucket in your trailer for shows or trail rides, and keep a salt lick in the stall or paddock to help stimulate thirst.

Grab a few tubes before your next show - Finish Line Electrocharge - 60cc - $16USD

2. Keep Them Cool
Your horse might look majestic in the sun, but trust us—they’re probably roasting. While sweating is a horse’s natural way of cooling down, sometimes they need a little help.

Cooling Tricks That Actually Work:

• Hose or sponge them off post-ride, focusing on the neck, chest, and legs.
  
• Use a barn fan or cooling sheet when ventilation is poor.
  
• Search out and utilize shade while waiting for your turn in the ring. 
  
  

Watch for Signs of Heat Stress:

• Rapid breathing, elevated heart rate
  
  
• Unwillingness to move or general sluggishness
  
  
• No sweating (yikes—call the vet!)
  

If your horse starts looking woozy or acting off, get them into the shade, cool them gradually, and contact your vet if they don’t perk up quickly.

3. Shield Against the Sun and Bugs
Because nothing says “summer” like a sunburned nose and a full-on fly attack. While horses may be built for the outdoors, their skin (and sanity) still needs some protection.

Your Summer Survival Kit:

• Lightweight fly sheets and UV-blocking fly masks can protect delicate skin from sunburn and bugs.
  
  
• Daily fly spray is a must—bonus points if it smells nice and adds a little coat shine.
  
  
• Fly boots and ear bonnets are worth considering, especially for sensitive types.
  
  

Skin Tip:
Horses with pink skin or white markings are especially prone to sunburn. Dab on a bit of equine-safe sunscreen or zinc oxide before turnout—it’s not glamorous, but it works.

4. Ride Smart, Not Hot
We get it—you’ve got training goals. But riding in 90°F weather isn’t doing either of you any favors. Instead, adjust your riding plan to work with the weather, not against it.

When and How to Ride:

• Ride early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid peak heat hours.
  
  
• Swap intense schooling for something lighter—groundwork, hack days, or even groundwork in-hand.
  
  
• Use breathable tack and moisture-wicking saddle pads to keep sweat from pooling in all the wrong places.
  

No shame in shortening your ride when the temps are up. Your horse (and your helmet hair) will appreciate it.

5. Don’t Forget the Hooves
Hot, dry weather is a recipe for hoof drama. Think cracks, chips, and all kinds of brittle nonsense. But there’s a balance—you don’t need to dunk your horse in hoof oil every day.

Healthy Hooves 101:

• Stick to your regular farrier schedule like your horse’s soundness depends on it (because it does).
  
  
• Apply a hoof moisturizer after baths or when hooves seem extra dry.
  
  
• Keep their living space clean and dry to ward off bacterial funk like thrush.
  
  

Bonus: Hoof supplements can also help with growth and strength—just make sure they’re appropriate for your horse’s current hoof condition.

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Keeping your horse happy in the heat isn’t about reinventing the wheel—it’s about being consistent, observant, and a little gear-savvy. Whether you're hitting the trails, prepping for summer shows, or just surviving turnout season, these care tips will help you both ride out the heat (literally).

Looking for barn-tested, horse-approved summer gear? Check out The Classic Equestrian’s summer collection for everything you need to beat the heat in style.

Cool horses. Happy riders. Classic style.