Horses working in summer heat face significant risks from electrolyte imbalance and dehydration. Understanding and preventing these conditions protects welfare during hot weather.
Working horses in hot weather face cumulative welfare risks from heat and electrolyte depletion that can progress rapidly to serious harm. A horse working in summer heat that is not adequately hydrated and electrolyte-replaced deteriorates across a session - performance declines, fatigue increases, and the risk of heat exhaustion grows. The 'thumps' (synchronous diaphragmatic flutter) indicate severe electrolyte depletion and accompanying distress. Heat exhaustion involves systemic physiological crisis including elevated core temperature, muscle damage, and circulatory compromise. These outcomes are largely preventable through appropriate work scheduling (avoiding peak heat hours), water availability during and after exercise, and electrolyte supplementation for horses working in hot conditions.