How to Keep Your Horse Happy and Healthy This Summer

Riding a horse is an experience that many people love. If your love of horses has led to actually buying one of these majestic animals, finding ways to keep it healthy and happy is crucial. Around 2 million people in America own horses. Owning a horse comes with a lot of responsibility, which is why you need to weigh all options before taking on this job. 

As the temperatures outside start to rise, you will have to change the way you look at caring for your horse. Keeping your horse happy and healthy this summer will be possible if you follow these tips. 

Make Adjustments To Your Riding Schedule

Owning a horse allows you to ride pretty much whenever you want to. However, you will need to give your horse plenty of rest in between rides to recuperate. Failing to provide this break can result in your horse getting injured. When the heat of summer into your area, you need to think about making serious adjustments to your riding schedule. 

Ideally, you only want to take your horse out either early in the morning or just before dark. Generally, these times of day are much cooler. Taking your horse out to ride at the hottest part of the day can be dangerous. If a horse gets overheated, it can lead to serious health problems. Taking these factors into consideration when developing a riding schedule is vital. 

Your Horse Needs Plenty of Water

Hydration is a crucial component of keeping your horse healthy during the summer months. You need to make sure your horse has plenty of water sources that are filled. Throughout the day, a horse will have to consume a lot of water to beat the heat of summer.  Also, it is imperative that your horse has a salt block available at all times.

If you are unable to check and fill your horse’s water throughout the day, you need to think about outsourcing this job. Renting a stable from a reputable boarding facility can help you care for your animal properly. Boarding facilities are designed to provide horses with the attention and care they deserve. Before choosing a place to board your animal, do your homework. Looking at the online reviews a boarding facility has can help you make the right decision. 

Work On Keeping the Bugs Away From Your Horse

One of the biggest nuisances for horses during the summer months is bugs. Pests like flies and mosquitoes are not only annoying, they can carry diseases as well. Removing the manure from the horse stable regularly is a great way to keep these flies and bugs at bay. If you rent a stable from a boarding facility, they will be responsible for doing this type of cleaning. 

We Have Great Boarding Facilities

As you can see, taking care of a horse during the summer months can be challenging. If you need help keeping your horse happy and healthy, contact Ocean View Stables. We have a coastal front boarding facilities and competitive prices only minutes from San Francisco.