Identifying and Treating Heat Stroke in Your Horse
Thanks to the high Arizona summer temperatures, you may find yourself having to deal with heat-related illnesses in your horse. One such illness is heat stroke.
What is Heat Stroke?
Heat stroke is a condition that occurs when your horse’s temperature rises to more than 105 degrees Fahrenheit. At these high temperatures, the heat can actually interfere with the cellular process of your horse’s body. Therefore, if you do not intervene in some way, permanent damage or even death are possible.
What are the Symptoms of Heat Stroke in a Horse?
Symptoms of heat stroke can be similar to those seen with heat exhaustion, such as excessive sweating, increased breathing and heart rate, lethargy and a slowed gait. Other signs include:
- Collapsing to the ground
- Mucous membranes that are unusually dark
- Muscle spasms
- Panting
- Stumbling
- Tripping
How Do I Treat Heat Stroke in My Horse?
If you suspect heat stroke with your horse, you should call your vet right away. In addition, you should take steps to cool your horse’s body immediately, such as using ice water to douse the horse’s body. You should specifically target the jugular veins that run along the side of your horse’s neck as well as the visible veins on the inside of the legs to achieve the most effective results.