HOT SUMMER TIP: PAY ATTENTION TO HORSES PHYSICAL STATE

Summertime temperatures are running wild across the United States this week, with Oklahoma hitting approximately 105°F, which is leading a number of equine owners to study their horse’s heat tolerance with more than a little caution. “Other than a general lack of enthusiasm and desire to move to shade, a normal well-acclimated horse should be able to handle Oklahoma’s heat and humidity with little concern,” said Dave Freeman, PhD, PAS, Dipl. ACAN, Oklahoma State University Cooperative Extension equine specialist. “However, the need for owner awareness increases when a horse begins to exercise and engage in more strenuous physical activity.” Continue reading…