Summer months can be tough on older horses, who may be already dealing with age-related health issues.

Heat stress, dehydration, insect bites, and other summer hazards can exacerbate their conditions and take a toll on their overall well-being. If you own an older horse, it's important to be proactive with their care during the summer months. The team at WeatherBeeta have put together some useful tips to help ensure your aging equine companion stays healthy and comfortable throughout the season.

Protect Your Horse From Insects

Insect bites can be more than just a nuisance for older horses. They can cause allergic reactions, skin issues, and infections that are harder for their aging bodies to combat. Protect your horse from insects by using a WeatherBeeta Fly sheet, fly mask, and top up with fly spray for extra protection. Additionally, keeping stables and pastures clean and free of standing water can help reduce the number of insects in the area.

Provide Your Horse With Ample Shade and Water

Heat stress is a significant risk for horses during the summer months. Providing ample shade and fresh water is a must. Trees, shelter, and airy stables can all provide relief from the sun's heat. A WeatherBeeta Therapy Tec fleece cooler rug can keep your horse well-ventilated in the stable during the day, with moisture-wicking properties to ensure your horse says dry and cool whilst out of the sunshine, and with ceramic technology designed to increase your horse's muscle function to reduce the risk of injury. Access to cool, clean water is also essential, and water sources should be checked and refilled regularly.

Adjust Your Horses Feeding Routine

Older horses have slower digestive systems, which can make them susceptible to dehydration and other digestive issues. To help keep them hydrated, consider adding water to their feed or soaking their hay. Also, make sure to feed them smaller, more frequent meals, rather than fewer large meals which may be too overwhelming for their digestive system. Additionally, avoid feeding them during the hottest parts of the day when their bodies are more susceptible to heat stress.

Regularly Exercise Your Veteran Horse

Regular exercise is essential for the mental and physical well-being of horses, regardless of their age. However, it's important to adjust your exercise routine to accommodate your older horse's needs. Shorter, less intense workouts are often best, and it's important to allow for plenty of cooling-off periods, especially during the hottest parts of the day. If your horse has arthritis, make sure to provide them with a soft, comfortable surface to stand on to prevent worsening of their condition.

Consider Extra Protection For Your Older Horses Legs

During exercise, it’s important to provide your horses tendons with as much protection as they need. The WeatherBeeta Therapy Tec Sports Boots contain ceramic technology, which works by reflecting the horses body heat back into the body and increases blood circulation, expanding the blood vessels. They are perfect for preventing tendon or ligament injuries or for an older horse with existing inflammations.