It has been unseasonably hot and humid for at least ten days now--in the mid 90's with humidity--and it is expected to continue for at least another week! So what steps do I take to make sure my senior horses are as comfortable as possible? Here are things we have in place right now:
- Fans in all run in sheds
- Shade screens in all run in sheds
- Multiple sources of salts: white, himalayan and rock salt available free choice
- Clean water as well as water with raw apple cider vinegar
- Sponge baths at evening feed time
Last night Tess was in the lower field at dinner, walked up to the shed and ate. It was apparent that she was feeling the effects of the extreme heat (as was I!). I stood her in front of the fans and gave her a cool sponge bath and stayed with her until I was sure she was ok. Her nostrils were flaring as she had labored breathing and she was quite lethargic. She is 28 and also has Cushing's disease which makes her more vulerable in temperature extremes. She was happily back out grazing after she cooled off.
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