Hot weather and jumping

[Gaby&Oreo]

Hi all,

I don't know about you, but I feel it's starting to get rather warm now! I was really looking forward to the summer ( i recently moved to the uk around 9 months ago ) but have noticed my new horse's energy levels drop dramatically. She is quite blood and tends to really perk up while jumping. Now I'm having a lot of difficulties during my lessons because she's so droopy it is proving quite difficult to see a distance to a fence. I have to admit I am a little worried. We were hoping to go compete in Spain next year but if it is warm as this I have no idea how we'll manage.

x

 

[Barton Bounty]

If you feel exhausted … imagine how and over half a tonne animal feels with a furry coat on.

Wouldnt be jumping unless its cool enough or inside in a cooler area. Would never bring a horse in from the field and just go for it jumping etc. I would think your instructor knows that

It will take it all out of them. Im not surprised she is feeling droopy

 

[sport horse]

Our show jumpers are really, really fit. In this weather we do the bare minimum to warm them up for a class and then wash them right down afterwards. Only 1 class per day and they are fed electrolytes every day. Many competitors clip the horses right out. The care of the horse's welfare is paramount and if your horse is grass fed and/or not 100% fit (fit not well!) then it is probably best to avoid any strenuous work while the weather is like this.

 

[Gaby&Oreo]

Our show jumpers are really, really fit. In this weather we do the bare minimum to warm them up for a class and then wash them right down afterwards. Only 1 class per day and they are fed electrolytes every day. Many competitors clip the horses right out. The care of the horse's welfare is paramount and if your horse is grass fed and/or not 100% fit (fit not well!) then it is probably best to avoid any strenuous work while the weather is like this.

I agree. My mare hasn't done any serious competing since around November\December last year, when she was in Spain. Do you have any tips for slowly getting her back into full fitness?