15 July 2022

Horses in a heatwave

With temperatures set to rise beyond 30 degrees this week, animal welfare is at the forefront of many peoples’ minds. For horse owners, helping horses to stay cool can present a huge challenge.

We recommend that all horses have access to shelter, either manmade or natural – if possible, bring horses in during the hottest hours of the day (providing their stable is cool and well-ventilated). It is vital that horses have access to clean, fresh water throughout the day, especially when they have no access to shelter or shade, and that exercise is kept to a minimum.

We are expecting to receive many reports during the heatwave, and due to this increase we will be triaging and assessing cases on an individual basis according to the urgency of reports we receive. We ask that our reporters remain patient with Redwings and other welfare organisations when contacting us for advice and support.

The following signs are of particular concern:

Fast/shallow breathing (panting)
Lethargic, depression or unresponsive behaviour
No interest in food or water
Unsteadiness
Sunburn causing irritated skin (red, scabby or oozing)

The Redwings Welfare Line is open 9am-5pm Monday to Friday on 01508 481008, or welfare@redwings.co.uk.

In an emergency please call the RSPCA on 0300 1234 999 between the hours of 8am to 8pm or report your concerns via this link.

To find an equine welfare organisation in your area, please use the interactive map at www.newc.co.uk/member (Please note that not all NEWC member charities are able to attend welfare concerns).

For more advice on caring for horses in hot weather follow the links below:

www.redwings.org.uk/news-and-features/welfare-corner-summer-care

www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/seasonal/summer/horses

www.drdavidmarlin.com/best-practice-for-horses-in-a-heatwave/