Horses' Summer Time, 'Horse Health Care in Summer' Introduction to Know-how

Jul 11, 2024

A racehorse in a cold shower. Photo courtesy = Korean Horse Association

Amid the recent news of heat waves and heavy rains caused by abnormal climates around the world, the Korean Peninsula is also expected to experience a record-breaking heat wave this summer. In response, veterinarian Kim Young-jong of the Korea Racing Authority delivers health care tips at the end of the summer for horses who continue to happily accompany people.

▶ Enough cool water

Horses generate more heat than humans because of their higher musculoskeletal muscle mass and proportion, which makes them more prone to summer heat than humans. Just as cool iced americano comes to mind in hot weather, horses also sweat a lot in summer, so be careful about hydration. Providing fresh water to drink freely at any time helps prevent heat stroke caused by dehydration.

▶ Sanitary care for disease prevention

Summer is a season when food goes bad. Care should also be taken in the management of feed for horses, but infectious diseases can be spread or contaminated by sanitary pests such as flies and mosquitoes, so insect screens and insect repellent nets should be installed, and pests should be eradicated through the spraying of fly and mosquito repellent.

Racehorse entering the swimming pool for summer health care. Photo courtesy = Korean Horse Association

▶ Sufficient nutritional supplement is required

In hot weather, adequate feed and supplements should be provided to maintain the horse's nutritional status. If you sweat a lot, supplementation of minerals such as electrolytes is important, and you should provide the right amount of green vinegar to maintain your nutritional status as much as possible.

▶ Ventilation and ventilation in the kitchen

In hot weather, horses should be allowed to rest in cool, shady spaces. Because Mabang has high temperature and humidity, it is helpful for ventilation by opening the door and window completely and smoothing the air flow through the fan.

Meanwhile, the Korean Horse Association is focusing on more delicate management such as mist spraying, horse swimming pools, and cold packs to help sweaty racehorses spend the summer on the racetrack. In addition to the horse racing park, if you familiarize yourself with and implement your health care know-how at the end of the summer in horse racing courses and ranches, you will be able to protect the health and welfare of horses from the heat wave and continue happy companionship with people.

wman@sportschosun.com