Summer in the Saddle
Southern California's warm, dry climate is one of the reasons it's such a great place to ride year-round. But when summer temperatures climb into the 80s and 90s — and sometimes higher in inland areas like San Juan Capistrano — riders and trainers need to adjust their approach to keep horses safe, comfortable, and performing well.
At Sorella Farm, managing the summer heat is a routine part of our horse-forward care. Here's what we recommend for any equestrian navigating the warmer months.
Adjust Your Riding Schedule
The simplest and most effective strategy is to ride during the cooler parts of the day. Early morning sessions, typically before 10 a.m., offer the most comfortable temperatures for both horse and rider. If afternoon riding is necessary, keep sessions shorter and less intense.
Pay attention to the heat index, not just the temperature. Humidity plays a role in how effectively a horse can cool itself through sweating. On days when it's both hot and humid, horses are at greater risk of overheating.
Hydration Is Everything
Horses can drink between 5 and 15 gallons of water per day, and that number increases significantly during hot weather and heavy work. Making sure your horse has constant access to clean, fresh water is non-negotiable.
Some horses drink less when they're away from home or when water tastes different. At shows, you can encourage drinking by flavoring water with a small amount of apple juice or electrolyte powder — but start this practice at home first so the horse is used to it before you travel.
Electrolyte supplementation becomes especially important in summer. Horses lose sodium, potassium, and chloride through sweat, and plain water alone doesn't replace these minerals. Your veterinarian can recommend an appropriate electrolyte supplement based on your horse's workload.
Cooling Down After Work
A proper cool-down is always important, but it's critical in the heat. After riding, walk your horse until its breathing returns to a normal rate. Then use cool water over the large blood vessels — the neck, chest, and inside of the legs — to help lower body temperature.
Scraping the water off after hosing is important because water sitting on the coat can actually trap heat. Hose, scrape, and repeat until the water running off the horse feels cool rather than warm.
Fans in the barn aisle or in front of stalls help with air circulation and cooling. Positioning a fan near the wash rack can make post-ride cool-downs more effective.
Sun Protection and Skin Care
Horses with light skin or pink noses are especially susceptible to sunburn. Fly masks with UV protection, equine sunscreen on exposed areas, and turnout during cooler hours can help prevent sun damage.
Flies and other insects are more active in summer, so a good fly management program — including fly sheets, fly spray, and environmental controls like fly traps and manure management — keeps horses comfortable and reduces stress.
Recognizing Heat Stress
Every rider and horse owner should know the signs of heat stress: excessive sweating or a sudden stop in sweating, rapid breathing that doesn't slow down after rest, elevated heart rate, lethargy, stumbling, or a rectal temperature above 103°F.
If you suspect heat stress, stop exercise immediately, move the horse to shade, begin cooling with water, and contact your veterinarian. Heat-related illness can escalate quickly and is always better prevented than treated.
Planning Your Show Schedule
Many Southern California show circuits schedule classes early in the day during summer months, but there are still times when you'll be competing in the heat of the afternoon. On those days, plan extra time for cooling between classes, bring additional water, and be prepared to scratch a class if your horse isn't recovering well.
A well-prepared summer strategy keeps your horse healthy, comfortable, and ready to compete through the warmest months of the year. Thoughtful management now pays off with a sound, happy horse heading into the fall season.