The summer months are often some of the best you can share with your equine companion. Whether you are hauling in to all the shows, exploring the trails, or lounging in the pasture, there are some great memories to be had. Summer horse care is important to ensure you and your trusty steed can enjoy the season, and Woodside Equine Clinic wants to make sure that happens. 

Preventive Care for Horses

Veterinary care for your horse is important year-round, but in the summer months, good preventive care makes a huge difference. Summer preventive care for horses should include:

• A good parasite prevention plan: A good deworming rotation can help to be sure that your horse thrives throughout the season. Parasites thrive during wet and rainy times of the year, and your horse is at higher risk during the summer months. 
• Up to date vaccines: Disease transmission can occur any time, but higher mosquito and animal activity during the warmer months make this a good time to be sure that your horse is up to date on all recommended vaccinations. 
• A fresh set of teeth: If your horse hasn’t had their teeth floated in a while, this might be a good time to have their dental health assessed. Sharp hooks and other dental issues can really put a damper on a good grazing session. 
• Good hoof care: Fluctuations in pasture conditions during the summer months can put some wear and tear on feet. Maintain a regular farrier schedule, clean hooves regularly, and keep moisture changes as minimal as possible. You might also use a hoof conditioner and/or supplement.

When it comes to trouble, preventing it is always the best bet. 

Summer Horse Care Tips

The summer weather and conditions can present some unique challenges for our horses. Be sure to keep the fun in the sun going by:

• Providing fresh, cool, clean water at all times (5-10 gallons a day or more)
• Minding the sun—sun sheets, solar protective fly masks, and even a little SPF 30 can prevent sunburn, particularly on areas with little pigment
• Hosing off your friend after a workout to prevent flies bom being attracted to any sweat
• Practicing good fly control by applying repellant daily
• Removing standing water where possible to prevent mosquito growth and the transmission of serious diseases like West Nile and EEE
• Using a stall fan to promote circulation, discourage flies, and keep your pony cool
• Considering an electrolyte supplement after hard workouts or providing a salt block
• Moving workouts to the cooler parts of the day where possible
• Taking the time to cool your horse down appropriately

If you have questions or concerns about your horse’s care, we are here to help you. Sometimes it can be hard to know the right answer, no matter the time of year, but that’s what we’re here for.