Keeping a black horse cool

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NoltonSeaShell

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Does anyone have any tips to keep a black horse cool? I just brought him in and he's sweated on his flanks and under his belly, and a bit under his chest. Normally he's fine, but we have had consistently hot weather lately.

I don't mind spending out on things of they are going to work :)
 
I wouldn't worry to much- weather to cool down as of tomorrow. But my dark bay has been sweating under his light reflective fly rug so had it off and if he sweats now i will just hose him off
 
You can get reflective/ light-coloured fly rugs to help keep them cool. Buying one with a slight sheen will help to reflect the sun's rays. Seems odd to rug a horse in order to keep him cool, but this method does seem to work. Another thing you could do would be to stable him during the day if it really is too hot and he looks uncomfortable. I understand this isn't an option for everyone though.

Good luck with him :)
 
I am going through the same thing with my boy. He is fine at lunchtime but by 6 he is sweating! The yard manager has been bringing him in at about 2 and then I turn him back out after I have ridden at about 6 and this seems to be doing the trick. I did buy him a fly rug yesterday to reflect the sun but it was too tight across the chest so am going to take it back and order another!

Am glad other black horses seem the same I have only just bought my boy after having him on loan since end of Jan and despite having him vetted was worried there was something wrong! (I like to worry lol)
 
I might have a look for a light fly rug, it seems like they are a popular method.

Anglebracket I may consider clipping him if the rug doesn't work, i was just unsure of people's views on clipping through the summer. Would be helpful in getting him used to clipping thou.
 
If it's very hot, we stable in the warmest hours, around here usually 2-5pm, since we have a well ventilated barn with air con if required
 
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