All you need to know about heat strokes in horses
Though for most of us the term 'heat stroke' would imply a human problem, domestic animals like the ever-useful horses are also prone to it in extreme temperatures during summer months. Humidity and unattended dehydration can also add up to increase the severity of the stroke. Just as in human beings, the mechanism of heat stroke in equine creatures is inability to lose body heat acquired due to prolonged working hours in high temperatures under the sun.
Hence, the core body temperature of the horse rises beyond the normal level. This is a very serious issue and needs to be addressed medically at the earliest with minimal delay.
Causes
The chief reason of heat stroke in horses is high temperature and/or humid conditions. Insufficient air ventilation in work area is also a precipitating factor. Other common causes include:
(a) Heavy workload on the horse
(b) High level of physical activity
(c) Equine obesity
(d) Equine respiratory diseases such as Equine Herpes Virus (EHV) and Equine Viral Arteritis (EVA)
Symptoms
Paying attention to the slightest hint of a heat stroke is of utmost importance as early measures taken will help to prevent more serious complications in later stages. The following symptoms should be looked for :
(a) Malaise
(b) Lethargy
(c) Increased salivation with associated drooling
(d) Raised body temperature and rectal temperature beyond 104 F
(e) Inflammation of the oral cavity
(f) Forced and heavy respiration
(g) Muscle spasms and cramps (a.k.a. thumping)
(h) Staggering gait
(i) Raised pulse and irregular heart beat
(j) Convulsions and sudden collapse
(k) Cessation of micturition
Diagnosis
As mentioned earlier, paying attention is the key and forms the foundation for a rapid and accurate diagnosis. For this purpose, the presence of veterinarians and other animal health care personnel at close proximity to the farm or ranch is a must. Regular checkups of the horses in question also help to prevent any damaging health conditions.
Preventive measures
Keeping these pointers in mind and following them can go a long way in avoiding heat related conditions in your horses:
a. The horse should not be exposed to hot and humid conditions, particularly if there is high amount of physical work involved, for instance in racing or riding. Plenty of water and shade are a must.
b. Containers which store water for the horses should not be contaminated with avian droppings, larvae or fungal filamentous growth. This prevents respiratory diseases which may predispose to heat stroke.
c. Horses generally do not prefer drinking warm water. So ensure the water supplied to them is cool.
d. Sponge or hose down the large arteries and veins along the inside of the legs, belly, and neck to provide localized cooling.
e. If you require your horses to work and train hard, scheduling for early morning or late evening must be done, as it is cooler at these times.
f. Use of electrolytes must be considered in case of profuse sweating hard. This replaces the lost essential salts. Only electrolytes approved for administration to horses must be used.
g. Ensure that your horse has a place of shade to avoid the sun.
h. A horses with dense coat must be given a frequent clipping.
i. To prevent sunburn, use zinc oxide cream.
j. Ensure the horse is getting enough fodder and consider supplementing with hay if necessary. Horses need energy to stay warm and cool. Adjust your feed mixture if your horse begins to lose condition in hot weather.
k. During very hot weather, keep your horses in their stables at day, and out at night.Placing a fan in the stable is not a bad idea as long as adequate precautions are taken.
l. To counter biting insects may make your horse restless employ insecticide sprays and mosquito sheets.
m. While at home, riding or competing, icy water and cold towels can help invigorate you and your horse. Putting them around your horse’s neck and your own will chill you both out for sure. A spot of lime, mint, or fragrant essential oils on paper towels adds a relaxing and indulgent touch.
