Summer in the UK is a much-anticipated season for riders. The longer daylight hours, warm weather, and lush green fields create the perfect conditions for hacks, schooling, and shows. 

But as lovely as summer sounds, it also introduces a range of challenges for your horse’s wellbeing- think flies, dehydration, sunburn, and even laminitis.

Seasonal adjustments in your horse care routine are vital. The goal is simple: keep your horse cool, comfortable, and in peak health during the hottest months of the year. Let’s dive into the ten essential tips that will help you do just that.

Keep Them Hydrated and Happy

Hydration is one of the most important aspects of summer horse care. Just like humans, horses sweat to cool down, which means they lose both water and essential salts. If not replaced, dehydration can set in quickly, especially during hot spells.

Make sure your horse has constant access to clean, fresh water. Check troughs daily, and scrub away algae build-up. In particularly hot weather or after intense exercise, consider adding electrolytes to their feed or water to replenish lost minerals.

Signs of dehydration include dark, sticky gums, reduced skin elasticity, and lethargy. Always monitor water intake closely during the warmer months.

Provide Adequate Shade

Not every horse knows when to get out of the sun, and in the UK, our weather can turn unexpectedly. Providing reliable shade is essential. Trees can offer natural shade, but if your paddock lacks coverage, investing in a field shelter is well worth it.

Ensure the shelter is well-ventilated and maintained so it doesn't become a heat trap. Some horse owners adjust turnout times, choosing to stable horses during the hottest part of the day and letting them out early in the morning or evening when temperatures are cooler.

Protect from Sunburn and Heat

Yes, horses can get sunburn too, especially those with pink-skinned areas like around the nose and eyes. White-faced horses are particularly vulnerable. Apply equine-safe sunblock daily to these areas, or consider fly masks with built-in UV protection.

Fly rugs and UV-protective sheets also offer great sun coverage, while still allowing airflow. Overheating is a serious risk, so always monitor your horse’s behaviour in the heat and adjust routines as needed.

Fight Off Flies the Right Way

British summers are notoriously buggy, and flies are more than just an irritation. They can cause stress, spread disease, and lead to infections. Regularly applying fly spray and using masks or fly rugs can dramatically reduce your horse’s discomfort.

Natural repellents like citronella and garlic-based products are also helpful, though their effectiveness varies from horse to horse. Don't forget that one of the most effective ways to manage flies is also the simplest: keep your yard and paddocks clean.

This is where regular manure collection becomes a game-changer.

Tidy Paddocks Mean Healthier Horses

Warm weather speeds up waste breakdown, which increases the risk of flies, worms, and unpleasant odours in the field. Constantly clearing paddocks is essential for your horse’s health and your peace of mind.

That’s where tools like the Paddock Blade really shine. Designed for UK terrain, this durable, easy-to-use paddock cleaner attaches to your quad or mower, allowing you to clear manure efficiently without hours of back-breaking labour.

Regular use keeps fields cleaner, reduces pests, and supports better pasture health throughout the summer.

Manage Grazing Smartly

Summer grazing comes with a unique risk - laminitis. Lush grass, especially during early morning or after rainfall, can be dangerously high in sugars. Horses prone to laminitis or weight gain must have their grazing carefully managed.

Use strip grazing or grazing muzzles to limit intake while still allowing turnout time. Rotating paddocks helps prevent overgrazing and maintains healthy grass. If needed, reduce turnout during peak grass growth periods and provide hay in a bare paddock instead.

Adjust Exercise for Summer Heat

Your horse’s fitness doesn’t take a holiday, but their summer routine should adapt to the warmer weather. Avoid exercising in the middle of the day when temperatures peak. Early morning or late evening rides are much cooler and safer.

After any workout, offer water immediately and allow your horse to cool down slowly. Sponge them off with cold water and ensure they’re not left standing in direct sun. Watch for signs of heat stress- excessive sweating, high pulse, or unwillingness to move are red flags.

Keep Grooming Summer-Specific

Sweating leads to itchy, grimy coats and clogged pores. In summer, grooming becomes more than just a bonding moment, it’s a health essential. Use a rubber curry comb or grooming mitt daily to remove sweat and dirt.

Bathing can help, especially after exercise, but avoid over-washing with shampoos, which can strip natural oils. Use tepid water and let your horse air dry or towel off lightly. Also, don’t forget your tack! Cleaning sweaty bridles and girths regularly prevents skin irritation.

Daily Health Inspections

With the increased turnout, it’s easy to assume everything’s fine, but summer demands more frequent checks. Look for cuts, swollen legs, fly bites, or heat rash. Eyes should be clear, hooves should be free of cracks and stones, and their demeanour should be normal.

Make these checks part of your daily grooming session. Catching issues early can save you from dealing with bigger problems down the line.

Summer Yard and Paddock Checks

Your yard and fields need summer TLC too. Walk your paddocks weekly and check for broken fencing, sharp objects, or fly-attracting trash. Clean water troughs often, especially in hot weather, and position them in shaded, safe areas.

If you’re using automated waterers, test them regularly. A malfunction during a heatwave can have dangerous consequences.

Conclusion: A Happier, Healthier Summer Starts with You

Summer horse care in the UK is all about staying ahead of the weather and anticipating your horse’s needs. With extra attention to hydration, fly control, grazing management, and clean paddocks, you’ll set your horse up for a season of comfort and vitality.

The effort you put in now, whether it’s installing shade, managing turnout times, or investing in tools like a Paddock Blade, will pay off all summer long.

A healthy, happy horse is a joy to ride, and there’s no better time to enjoy them than under a bright summer sky.

FAQs

How much water should a horse drink during summer?
An average horse can drink between 25 to 55 litres per day in summer, depending on their size, activity level, and weather. Always ensure constant access to clean, cool water, and consider adding electrolytes if your horse is sweating heavily.

Do all horses need fly rugs in the summer?
Not necessarily, but horses sensitive to bites, or those in high-fly areas, benefit from fly rugs. These lightweight sheets help keep flies at bay and can include UV protection to shield against sunburn.

How often should I clear manure from the paddock in summer?
Ideally, every 1–2 days. Regular paddock cleaning significantly reduces flies, odours, and the spread of worms. Tools like the Paddock Blade make this job faster and easier, even for large or uneven paddocks.

What’s the best time to ride in hot weather?
Early morning or late evening rides are best during hot summer days. Avoid peak afternoon heat, and always allow for a proper cool-down afterwards.

How can I tell if my horse is overheating?
Signs include rapid breathing, excessive sweating, lethargy, a high pulse rate, or even confusion. If you notice any of these, move your horse to shade immediately, offer water, and sponge down with cool water.

Should I still groom my horse if they’re turned out 24/7?
Yes. Daily grooming helps spot injuries, remove sweat and dirt, and maintain coat health. It’s also a great chance to check for fly bites, heat rash, or hoof issues.