HUMAN health precautions and regular checking of your horses or dog is advised with the recent increased temperatures.

There are a number of steps equestrians and dog owners should take to ensure their own and their animals’ health and safety in the hot weather.

Transporting horses

With temperatures particularly high in Ireland and across Europe at the moment, this could present challenges and risks for animals transported in trailers and lorries without air conditioning.

  • Tailor the stocking rate accordingly
  • Check on animals regularly
  • Avoid peak temperatures
  • Rest animals before transporting
  • Be aware of water availability
  • Plan journeys wisely
  • Shelter while resting

    • Heat stress is particularly a risk in young animals exposed to peak temperatures and those without any access to shelter facing the greatest risk.

    Visible signs of heat stress include:

  • Reduced movement
  • Faster breathing rate
  • Open-mouthed panting
  • Decreased feed intake
  • Increased water consumption

    • If you are worried about your horse or have spotted any of the symptoms, call your vet immediately for advice.

    Keeping dogs safe in hot weather is vital to prevent heatstroke, dehydration, and paw pad burns.

    Always ensure your dog has access to clean, fresh water and a shady place to rest. Avoid walking dogs during the hottest parts of the day – early mornings and late evenings are safer.

    Never leave your dog in a parked car, even for a few minutes, as temperatures inside can rise dangerously fast.

    Hot pavements can burn paws, so test surfaces with your hand - if it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your dog.

    Watch for signs of overheating:

    Excessive panting, drooling, weakness, or collapse. Breeds with short snouts, older dogs, and puppies are especially vulnerable.

    Provide cooling mats or damp towels for your dog to lie on, and consider using a paddling pool for play and refreshment.

    Taking these steps ensures your dog stays healthy, happy and safe in summer heat.

    Equal concern

    Heat stress could become a serious factor not only for animals, but also for people working during peak daytime temperatures. As people who work with animals, we tend to often put the health of our livestock first, but it is important that the health and safety of anyone working with animals is given equal concern.

    Equestrians, equine farmers, grooms and yard workers are advised to apply sun cream regularly throughout the day, stay well hydrated and take regular breaks to avoid exhaustion.

    Top tips while working with horses:

  • Try to stay out of the midday sun
  • Eat cold foods
  • Drink plenty
  • Avoid excess alcohol, caffeine and hot drinks
  • Be watchful of others
  • Some prescription medicines can make us feel hotter. It’s important to take extra care to keep cool

    • Symptoms of heatstroke in humans

  • Feeling faint and dizzy
  • Shortness of breath
  • Vomiting
  • Confusion
  • Headache
  • Intense thirst
  • Cramps in your arms, legs or stomach

    • Cool down as quickly as possible if you have these symptoms. Seek out your venue or local doctor, or pharmacist, if you are worried.

    Ring 999 if someone has collapsed.