I don't know about you but so far Spring in Los Angeles has been pretty hot.
It's been reaching almost 90 degrees (Fahrenheit) in some parts of the city.
The heat not only affects us but it affects our horses (and all our other animals).
Here are some simple ways to keep your horse happy and healthy during a heat wave.

1. Water - Always make sure you have plenty of water available for your horse at all times.
   Keep an eye out for bugs and mosquitoes.
   Not unlike us horses are less likely to want to drink if there are a bunch of bugs in the water.
   It is also safer for them to drink clean water.
   
2. Shade - Have a large enough area of shade for your horse to relax in when it starts to get too hot.
   No one likes to bake in the sun all day.
   
3. Electrolytes - Horses lose electrolytes while they sweat.
   Replenish salt loss during excessive sweating with a suitable electrolyte supplement.
   They have them available at most places where you get your horse feed.
   
4. Ventilation - When possible, leave barn doors and windows open and install misting fans near each stall if you can.
   Keep a hose near by for a quick splash.
   
5. Baths - Bathe your horse! He/She will love you for it.
   Nothing feels better then having a nice cold bath on a hot day.
   
6. Coat Care - Keep your horse's mane and tail trimmed.
   Apply a zinc oxide sunscreen to pink noses to help prevent sunburn.
   There are shampoos available with UV protection added to help protect your horse's coat.
   Horses can get sunburn too.
   It's not just for us.
   

These tips will help keep your and your horse happy during the spring heat wave.
Not only will they be happy but they will be healthy.
Many of times we can't tell when our animals are suffering, especially during the hotter times of the year.
If we keep up with all the items listed below then you are more then likely to have a happy and healthy horse.
Horses can suffer from heat stroke just like any human can.
Only we can speak up for ourselves.
For more information on how to keep your horse happy you can always look to Google.
Information is limitless on the internet and it never hurts to do your research when it comes to those you love.