Today, we’re diving into an important topic. How to Rescue an Overheating Horse: Warning Signs You’re Missing, how to help them cool down, and how to prevent heat stress in horses during hot weather.
Why Do Horses Overheat?
Horses can overheat for a variety of reasons, including:
- Lack of fitness
- High heat and humidity (⚠️ Heat + Humidity >150? Take caution)
- Poor sweating ability (like anhidrosis)
- Breed differences (heavier breeds struggle more)
- Thick or long coats
The most common cause of overheating is working a horse in extreme heat and humidity without enough breaks, shade, or hydration.
How to Rescue an Overheating Horse: Warning Signs You’re Missing
Wondering how to tell if your horse is getting too hot? Here are the warning signs you’re missing if you’re not looking closely:
- Heavy or Labored Breathing
Shallow, rapid breaths that don’t return to normal after rest are the #1 indicator. - Lack of Sweating
If your horse is working but staying bone dry, that’s a red flag — especially combined with heavy breathing. - Hot to the Touch
A warm body isn’t unusual in summer, but excess heat + other symptoms = overheating.
How to Rescue and Overheating Horse -What to Do
Take action immediately. Here’s how to rescue an overheating horse fast:
- Stop all work and untack your horse
- Move to a shady spot (with a fan if possible)
- Begin hosing the horse with cool water
- Focus on big blood vessels: neck, belly, inner hind legs
- Keep hosing continuously for at least 10 minutes
- Keep hosing
- Seriously keep hosing continuously – its the best way to cool them down
- Do not stop to sweat scrape during cooling — it slows the process
Continue hosing with cool water in the shade (preferably with a fan) until:
- Breathing normalizes
- They feel cooler to the touch
- Temp is 101.5°F or below
💧 Horses can drink cool water at any time during this process.
⏱️ If they haven’t returned to normal within an hour — call your vet.
How to Prevent Overheating in the Future
It’s all about planning ahead and knowing your horse’s limits. Here are simple ways to prevent heat stress:
- Know the forecast: Heat + humidity >150? Scale back your ride. Here is a handy chart to know the danger zones
- Go slow: Choose light workouts or groundwork.
- Take breaks: Find shade or opt for a trail ride.
- Offer water often: To you and your horse.
- Know your horse: Some struggle more than others.
Bonus Ideas for Hot Days
Just because it’s hot doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy your horse. Try:
- Working on walk quality
- A groundwork session
- A relaxing grooming or spa day. Click here for a great grooming product!
- Standing in the shade and bonding
I hope this guide on “warning signs you’re missing: how to rescue an overheating horse” helps you ride smarter and safer all summer long.
Keep learning, keep listening to your horse — and stay cool out there.