3 Ways to Keep Your Horse Hydrated in the Summer

Summer is a great time to let your horse out to explore the sunshine. However, the heat can quickly lead to dehydration, which is a significant concern for their health. Horses might not always drink enough water on their own, so it's essential to ensure they stay properly hydrated. To help you keep your horse healthy and hydrated this summer, we've gathered three essential tips!

Make Clean Water Easily Accessible 

One of the simplest ways to make sure your horse can stay hydrated is making sure they have access to clean, fresh water. Make sure they have water buckets or troughs nearby in easy to reach places, keeping it low to the ground where the horse can drink with ease. Ensure the water source is shaded and replace the water at least once a week to prevent algae and bacteria from growing in the hot weather. This is also why you should provide your own clean water and not let your horse drink from any nearby streams or ponds, as these water sources can grow algae and bacteria in the summer that may make your horse sick. Keep water near your horse in their stall and keep water sources available when they are outside. If you go on a ride, make sure to take water with you so your horse can get a drink during the ride. 

Use Flavors or Treats 

Sometimes your horse might not want to drink plain water. So, you might have to incentivize them a bit to get them to drink more. Adding flavor or treats to their water adds a more appealing element and will help them drink more. You can add flavoring or a healthy juice that’s safe for horses to the water to make it more enticing to your horse. You can also add some tasty treats, like apple slices, to the water. This will flavor the water and encourage your horse to drink more as they try to reach the treat. 

Use Salt Licks 

After you eat a salty snack, you typically feel thirsty and want a drink of water. The same can be said for horses! After enjoying a salty snack, your horse's body will naturally trigger a thirst response, encouraging them to drink water. This trick can also help horses replenish some of the salt they lose through sweat during exercise on hot days. Give your horse a salt lick to stimulate thirst and leave a water source nearby to help them stay hydrated. Your horse will be happy to get a salty treat and enjoy a refreshing drink!

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