The summer is in full swing, and the warmer weather means more time outside in the field for our horses. Whilst the summer can be a concerning time for horse owners as flies and insects can irritate and bite horses plus the risk of the sun’s UV rays can burn sensitive areas on the horse’s face in particular there are ways that we can help our horses to stay healthy in the warmer months, from selecting the right horse feeds packed with vitamins and minerals to support good overall health, to shampoos that can tackle annoying bugs, irritation, and dry skin. Read on to find out more.
Types Of Horse Shampoo
Just like when it comes to washing our hair, there are many different shampoo formulas available that we can choose from to benefit our horse – but how do you know which product will give the best results? Shampoos can be adapted so your show horse stays sleek and shiny for example or can be used to help soothe any dry or irritated skin.
Below, we’ll look at the range of shampoos available, and what they can help you to achieve, to save you money and time. One thing that you can be sure of with the most popular horse shampoos, is that they’ll most likely use organic and natural ingredients – that, of course, have not been tested on animals!
Shampoo To Soothe
There are many reasons that your horse may suffer from itchy or dry skin, whether their rugs are rubbing, they are prone to suffering sweet itch or they’re simply weathered by the elements – choosing a shampoo to soothe can help alleviate any annoying itching. Many of these shampoos are pH balanced to promote skin hygiene and brighten dull coats.
Shampoos To Tackle Flies And Insects
As we know, the summer is prime time for flies and bugs to irritate our horses. You can choose shampoo to deter these nasty mites and repel them before they get the chance to bite! You’ll find these natural shampoos quite often contain lemon, to dispel the flies. They can also help to reduce reaction to bites and help to maintain moisture within your horse’s skin – which is key in the summer.
Shampoo For Showing
There are a few shampoos on the market that can help you to achieve that sleek show shine. And as your show horse will be being bathed regularly, you can guarantee they will be packed with gentle, natural ingredients that will help to keep the essential oils within your horse’s coat and skin. There are eco-friendly options too, and even soap bars if you’re conscious of your plastic use.
How Often Should You Shampoo Your Horse?
In the summer, your horse sweats and it is often necessary to wash them more frequently to ensure the coat stays clean as dried sweat can cause rubbing and may attract some insects. However,we must be aware that washing our horses too much means we can strip the coat of essential oils and natural defences. In some cases, it can lead to a more brittle coat and even skin problems. During the summer, try to usea gentle shampoo that meets your horse’s requirements. Washing sparingly means you can keep the sebum in your horse’s skin and coat. If your horse is being prepared for shows, then you are likely to need to wash them more frequently too and the same principle applies. Applying conditioners after washing can help to keep skin soft and the coat glossy but do check new products on small areas of the horse first just in case they trigger a reaction!
Tips And Tricks For A Clean Coat
When washing your horse, you should make sure that you rinse your chosen shampoo off thoroughly, as any residue that is left behind could mean irritation or itchy, flaking skin. When it comes to drying, you should ensure that you strip as much water off your horse’s coat as you can to allow them to dry more quickly and easily. You could also take them for a walk so that they can dry off in the summer air. Remember, if your horse gets too warm in the summer, hosing them with clear, cool (but not too cold!) water is fine, and can help them stay more comfortable in the warm weather.