Why Summer Care Matters for Competitive Horses
Southern California is a dream for equestrians in many ways — year-round riding weather, access to top show circuits, and beautiful facilities like Rancho Sierra Vista in San Juan Capistrano. But when summer temperatures climb into the 90s and beyond, the heat presents real challenges for horses in active training programs.
At Sorella Farm, our horse-forward philosophy means we adjust everything — from feeding schedules to training intensity — based on what our horses need. Summer is one of the most important times to pay close attention to your horse's comfort and health.
Hydration Is the Foundation
A horse in moderate work can drink 10 to 15 gallons of water per day, and that number climbs significantly in hot weather. Dehydration is one of the most common and dangerous summer risks for sport horses.
There are a few things every horse owner should be doing during the summer months. First, make sure fresh, clean water is available at all times — both in the stall and in turnout. Some horses drink more readily from buckets than automatic waterers, so know your horse's preference. Adding electrolytes to one water source (while keeping a plain water option available) can encourage drinking and replace minerals lost through sweat. You can also soak hay or offer soaked hay cubes to increase water intake through feed.
One simple test you can do at home is the skin pinch test. Pinch the skin on your horse's neck — if it takes more than two seconds to snap back, your horse may be dehydrated. If you notice signs of dehydration, contact your veterinarian right away.
Adjusting Your Training Schedule
During the hottest weeks of summer, we shift our riding schedule at Sorella Farm to take advantage of cooler morning and evening hours. Riding before 10 a.m. or after 5 p.m. can make a meaningful difference in how your horse handles the work.
It is also important to adjust the intensity of your sessions. This does not mean taking the summer off — consistent training is essential for competitive riders. But it does mean being smart about how hard you push on the hottest days. Shorter, more focused sessions often produce better results than long rides in extreme heat. Pay attention to your horse's breathing and recovery time after work. If your horse is taking longer than usual to cool down, that is a sign to back off.
Cooling Down Properly
A proper cool-down is always important, but it becomes critical in summer. After every ride, walk your horse until their breathing returns to normal. Hosing your horse with cool water — focusing on the large blood vessels along the neck, chest, and inside the legs — is one of the most effective ways to bring their body temperature down quickly.
Scrape off excess water after hosing, then hose again. Standing water on the coat can actually trap heat, so the hose-scrape-repeat method works better than just leaving your horse wet. Placing a fan near the wash rack or in the barn aisle helps with evaporative cooling as well.
Turnout and Stall Management
If your facility offers covered turnout or shade structures, take advantage of them during peak sun hours. Fly sheets and fly masks help with comfort and reduce the stress that comes from constant insect irritation. Fans in stalls are essential during summer — good air circulation keeps the barn cooler and reduces the risk of respiratory issues from stagnant air.
At Rancho Sierra Vista, we are fortunate to have well-ventilated barns and shaded areas, but even in a great facility, you need to be proactive about managing your horse's environment during extreme heat.
Nutrition Adjustments
Horses in heavy work during the summer may need adjustments to their feed program. Electrolyte supplementation is a common addition, but it should be done thoughtfully. Talk to your veterinarian or equine nutritionist about the right electrolyte product and dosage for your horse's workload.
Some horses eat less when it is very hot, which can lead to weight loss during the summer show season. Offering smaller, more frequent meals and ensuring high-quality forage is always available can help maintain weight and energy levels.
Recognizing Heat Stress
Every rider and horse owner should know the signs of heat stress. These include excessive sweating or a sudden stop in sweating (anhidrosis), rapid breathing that does not slow down after rest, elevated heart rate, lethargy, stumbling, or refusing to work. If you suspect heat stress, stop riding immediately, move your horse to shade, begin cooling with water, and call your veterinarian.
Anhidrosis — the inability to sweat — is a condition that affects some horses in hot climates and can be life-threatening. If your horse seems to stop sweating during work or in hot weather, this is a veterinary concern that needs attention right away.
Summer Is for Smart Training
The summer months do not have to derail your training goals. With thoughtful management — adjusting schedules, prioritizing hydration, and paying attention to your horse's signals — you can keep your horse healthy, comfortable, and progressing through the season. At Sorella Farm, we believe that taking care of the horse always comes first, and that approach produces the best results in the ring year-round.