Animals – Managing heat stress in animals

Safeguarding animals against heat stress becomes paramount during summer, particularly when travelling or if the animals are being taken to shows. Heat stress occurs when animals struggle to dissipate heat, leading to dehydration, heat stroke and other health issues. Here’s some tips on how to help avoid heat stress:

• Consider electrolyte supplements, starting the night before travel, twice daily, for animals prone to sweating heavily, and provide constant access to fresh water. Another thing that can help is providing the animals with a good source of fibre, prebiotics and probiotics so that any stressors on digestive tracts are minimised. This, in turn, prevents further fluid losses. Also low protein feeds help decrease internal body heat from digestion.

• Shade and shelter: Provide ample shade and shelter to shield animals from direct sunlight, using tents, umbrellas, or solar fan systems to cool the area.

• Scheduling: Avoid competing during peak heat, reducing the risk of overheating during strenuous activities. If this is unavoidable, ensure the animals are acclimatised to workouts and so on at those peak times. Afterwards, repeat shower then scrape, soak then scrape, until respiration rate is down.

• Temperature monitoring: Stay updated on weather forecasts and monitor temperature and humidity levels throughout the day, adjusting travel and management accordingly.

• Learn to recognise the signs of heat stress, such as excessive panting, drooling, weakness and rapid heartbeat, and take immediate action if observed.

• Keep a well-equipped first aid kit on hand with essential supplies such as cold packs, electrolyte solutions, water containers and thermometers. Remember that at some shows there are taps but no way to attach your hose to them, so take some adapters.

• Spread awareness about heat stress management emphasising the importance of proactive measures. 

By implementing these strategies, we can ensure the wellbeing of our animals during hot days at shows or during journeys. Prevention and preparedness are key to minimising the risk of heat-related illnesses and ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants.