Keep Your Horse Cool: 10 Proven Tips this Summer To Beat the Heat
Summer Horse Care in Australia: 10 Proven Tips to Keep Your Horse Cool
Australian summers are long, hot, and often unforgiving — and our horses feel it just as much as we do. With soaring temperatures, biting insects, and the constant risk of dehydration, summer horse care is about being proactive.
At Delzani, we live and ride in these same conditions. That’s why we’ve pulled together 10 smart strategies to help your horse stay cool, healthy, and comfortable all summer long.
1. Hydration Is Non-Negotiable
A horse can drink 40–60 litres of water per day in hot weather. Keep troughs topped up and check them multiple times daily. Place water sources in shaded areas, provide a salt lick year-round, and consider adding electrolytes to feed or water for horses in heavy work.
2. Choose Summer-Ready Rugs
Not all rugs are suitable for the Australian summer. The right fabrics protect without trapping heat. Explore our summer rug range:
- Hybrid Crossover Rugs – breathable mesh airflow with UV-protective polyester panels.
- Cool Fly Mesh Rugs – lightweight, insect-proof, and quick-drying for humid or stormy days.
- Cool Summer Flag Rugs – ultra-light and breezy for the hottest, driest conditions.
3. Provide Reliable Shade
Natural tree cover is ideal, but shelters or shade sails also work. In stables, maximise airflow with open doors and fans. When travelling, always park floats in the shade to reduce heat build-up.
4. Use Sunscreen on Sensitive Areas
Pink skin on muzzles and around eyes burns quickly. Apply a horse-safe sunscreen before turnout and reapply during long days in the sun or after sweating heavily.
5. Invest in Fly Protection
Insects are more than a nuisance — they spread disease and create stress. Protect your horse with fly masks and bonnets, clean paddocks regularly to reduce breeding, and use fly traps or stable fans for extra defense.
6. Exercise During Cooler Hours
Work horses in the early morning or late evening when temperatures are lower. After exercise, always:
- Remove tack immediately.
- Hose or sponge with cool water, scraping off excess.
- Offer frequent, small drinks rather than one large intake.
7. Recognise Early Heat Stress
Warning signs include rapid breathing (20+ breaths/min), pulse over 40 bpm, high temperature above 38.5°C, or lethargy. If you suspect heat stroke, move your horse into shade, sponge repeatedly with cool water, keep airflow moving, and call your vet immediately.
8. Master the Cool-Down Process
Focus hosing on large blood vessels (neck, chest, inner thighs) and scrape water away to stop heat from trapping. Alternate cooling with short walking breaks to aid circulation.
9. Adjust Feeding for the Season
Feed smaller, more frequent meals to reduce digestive heat load. Add soaked beet pulp or electrolytes for hydration support. Always store feed in a cool, dry place as heat and humidity can quickly spoil grain.
10. Plan Ahead for Extreme Heat
Check forecasts daily and prepare before a heatwave hits. Set up spare water sources, electrolytes, and shade solutions in advance. Delay transport or training if extreme temperatures are predicted.
Final Word
Summer horse care in Australia is all about vigilance, preparation, and the right equipment. From hydration and shade to fly protection and lightweight rugs, small steps can prevent serious problems before they start.
Delzani’s summer rugs and accessories are designed with airflow, insect defence, and UV protection — built for Australian conditions. Explore the range today:
Keep your horse cool, protected, and thriving this summer with Delzani.
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