Preventing dehydration

Article from 'Straight from the Horse's Mouth' - December 2009

With the warmer weather on the horizon, it pays to have a checklist of things to consider around your horse's health.

Exercise combined with humidity can cause dehydration in horses if not managed correctly. This is something we possibly under-estimate.

When at rest, ensure your horse has plenty of access to fresh clean water. Instil a discipline of regularly checking troughs, removing debris and cleaning algae. If the trough is self replenishing, check the ballcock is functioning correctly. Also check for leaks at seals and joints. Make sure the ground surface at the base of the trough is clear from stones or sharp objects and the trough is easily accessible.

When away from home, try to supply water from your own source so you have confidence around the quality.

Ensure horses are appropriately covered during hot weather, and not too hot.

Provide and feed electrolytes according to the work being done.

Ensure you follow a worming programme, and most importantly, you worm correctly for the weight of your horse. One of the biggest risks to building resistance is to under dose over long periods of time. Choose a drench that is appropriate to the parasites you need to kill. A correctly drenched horse will be able to absorb its food more effectively, eliminate the risk of diarrhoea and maintain all round better health.

RD1 can supply water products, electrolytes, and drenches for your horse - talk to the team about your requirements.

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