Horse owners across southern England and south-east Wales are being urged to take extra care of their animals after the Met Office issued an amber extreme heat warning for the region yesterday (Friday 19 June).

Temperatures are forecast to climb into the low-to-mid 30s Celsius over the coming days, with the hottest weather conditions expected early next week.

Amber warnings are issued when significant impacts are expected and conditions could pose risks to health and wellbeing. The warning covers much of southern England and south-east Wales and is one of the highest levels of heat alert issued by the Met Office.

Hot weather can affect horses in a number of ways, increasing the risk of dehydration, heat stress and sunburn.

Owners are therefore being encouraged to review their management routines and ensure horses have access to plenty of fresh water and shade throughout the day.

Horse owners should continue monitoring local forecasts and remain alert to changing conditions as the heatwave develops over the weekend and into next week.

How to help keep your horse safe in hot weather

Provide constant access to clean water

Check troughs and buckets regularly and top them up as needed. Horses can drink significantly more during hot weather.

Offer shade

Ensure horses can escape direct sunlight, whether that’s in a field shelter, stable or under natural tree cover.

Avoid exercising during the hottest part of the day.

Ride early in the morning or later in the evening when temperatures are lower.

Cool horses down properly

After exercise, hose horses with cool water and continue applying water until their breathing and temperature return to normal.

According to Dr David Marlin, the quickest way to cool a hot horse is to continually pour cold water on them — there is no need to scrape it off.

Watch for signs of heat stress

Excessive sweating, lethargy, rapid breathing, elevated heart rate and reluctance to move can all indicate a horse is struggling with the heat. Contact your vet if you have concerns.

Protect pink skin from sunburn

Use equine-safe sun protection on vulnerable areas such as pink noses and around the eyes.

Check travelling plans

Transporting horses during extreme heat can be challenging. If possible, avoid travelling during the hottest periods of the day.

RSPCA urges all pet owners to prepare for heatwave

Many horse owners also care for dogs and other pets, which can be particularly vulnerable during periods of extreme heat.

The RSPCA is urging pet owners to take steps now to protect their animals from the incoming heatwave.

Lauren Bennett, dog welfare expert at the RSPCA, said: “It’s really simple — planning ahead and being prepared in this hot weather can help save pets’ lives. Complacency can mean soaring temperatures are a silent killer for our beloved animals.

“No matter your dog’s breed or how much they appear to enjoy basking in the sunshine, all animals are at risk. Taking the time now to identify how you can reduce your dog’s risk, could just save their life.”

The animal welfare charity is encouraging owners to ensure pets have access to fresh drinking water and cool, shaded areas, avoid exercising dogs during the hottest parts of the day, and never leave animals unattended in vehicles, where temperatures can rise rapidly even when it feels relatively mild outside.

Main image of New Forest Ponies in Hampshire © Shutterstock

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