Climate change is here and we are experiencing periods of intense heat but we have learned a lot from competitors in countries like Australia, South America and Africa.
Heat affects horses and humans differently. Some can cope, whilst others struggle.
Welfare is the main priority, so everybody needs to assess their particular circumstances, in order to decide whether to compete.
Venues will enable access to water and advise on systems that they have put in place, so go to their websites to check.
Top tips to help your horse
Hairy horses can benefit from being clipped in the summer.
Travel in the coolest parts of the day.
Ensure that the method of transport has good ventilation and carry plenty of excess water in case of traffic delays.
Ensure the horse has access to fresh water at all times. Soak hay to increase water consumption (dont let it go rancid).
Find some shade for your horse when you park. This might mean tying up on one side of the trailer and moving the horse as the sun goes around or standing the horse inside the trailer and opening all doors and ramps in order that they can benefit from the breeze.
Use salt / electrolytes in feeds to encourage the horse to drink and replace salt from excessive sweating. Recovery mashes are useful after competing. Be careful not to over use electrolytes- read the label.
Dont tack up until you need to. Leave the saddle off until the rider is ready to go.
Warm up for a shorter time.
Stand the horse in the shade during coursewalks and whilst waiting to jump.
If you horse is struggling, withdraw and cool him down before taking him home.
Take a bucket and sponge to the competition. Wash down the horse (particularly the large muscle groups) after competing.
Top tips to help the rider.
Drink plenty of water
Stay in the shade as much as possible.
Do not put your riding hat / body protector on until you are ready to mount the horse.
Venues will allow you to jump without jackets in sand arenas (providing parents agree) providing the stock shirt has sleeves.
Top tips for helpers
Wear a hat and sunscreen and loose, cool clothing.
Drink plenty of water and add electrolytes.
Stay in the shade as much as possible.
For more information, go to the BEF or ask your vet
https://www.britishequestrian.org.uk/equine/health-biosecurity/hot-weather-advice
