Pushing a horse that is already struggling with the heat can quickly escalate from a welfare issue to a life-threatening emergency. Recognizing the subtle, and sometimes not-so-subtle, signs of heat stress before you even put a foot in the stirrup is one of the most important skills a rider can have.
Reading the Red Flags: Is Your Horse Safe to Ride
Recognizing Heat Stress in Your Horse Before You Ride
Your Pre-Ride Wellness Check
Before every ride on a warm day, perform a hands-on wellness check. Don't just glance at your horse from the pasture gate; bring them in and observe them closely. Is their breathing rate elevated while they’re just standing still? A normal resting respiratory rate is between 10-12 breaths per minute. A significantly higher rate indicates the horse is already working hard to cool down. Check their gums—they should be pink and moist. Pale, tacky mucous membranes are a clear sign of dehydration. Gently pinch a fold of skin on their neck or shoulder. If it "tents" and is slow to flatten, your horse is dehydrated and should not be worked. These are clear indicators that your horse's body is already under strain.
Obvious Signs of Distress
Some signs of heat stress are impossible to miss and demand immediate action, not a ride. Profuse sweating is the body's cooling system in overdrive, but a more dangerous sign is a lack of sweat altogether on a hot day. This could indicate anhidrosis ("non-sweating"), a serious condition that requires veterinary management. Other critical red flags include weakness, stumbling, or a general lethargic attitude. A horse that refuses to work or seems dull and unresponsive is communicating a clear message. A rectal temperature between 102°F and 105°F signals dangerous heat stress, while anything above 105°F is a medical emergency, indicating the onset of heatstroke where organ damage can occur.
Know the High-Risk Horse
While all horses can be affected by heat, some are more susceptible. Be extra vigilant if your horse falls into a high-risk category. Horses that are overweight or have heavy muscling carry extra insulation that makes cooling more difficult. Likewise, very young foals and senior horses have less efficient thermoregulation systems. Horses with dark coats absorb more heat from the sun, and those being transported in trailers without adequate ventilation are at an extremely high risk. If your horse has recently moved from a cooler climate, they need time—up to 21 days—to properly acclimate before being asked to perform in the heat.
Smart Management for Safe Riding
Prevention is always the best medicine. The most responsible decision you can make is often to not ride at all. When the temperature and humidity combine to a value over 150, it is safest to skip strenuous exercise. Schedule your rides for the coolest parts of the day, such as the early morning or late evening. Ensure constant access to fresh, cool water and provide a salt block to encourage drinking and replenish lost electrolytes. If you do ride, keep it light, take frequent breaks in the shade, and offer water before, during, and after your session. Proactive and observant management is the key to a safe summer.
Your horse's health is our top priority.
By learning to recognize the signs of heat stress, you can make informed decisions that protect your equine partner from harm. If you are ever unsure or notice concerning symptoms, do not hesitate to dismount, begin cooling measures, and call us for guidance.