08/08/2026
What is anhidrosis?
It's a disorder where you (or in this case, Jake) can't sweat normally to dissipate heat. It's more commonly found in hot places with high humidity and research has found it happens more in dark horses, but not in specific breeds. Jake never had an issue in Austin but his second summer here, he stopped sweating. We've tried all the things: 1AC, beer, misters, body work/acupuncture, and now a specially formulated supplement by Sandy Equine Apothecary (Robin Beatty).
He's shown some intermittent improvement, but really we just have to alter his work schedule (no rides after 10am), use ice boots after work, he has a fan on 24/7, and several rinses a day. Today, he even had 3 during his lesson. We watch for significantly elevated respiration rate and heart rate as we don't want him to overheat. His lease kiddo does a great job accommodating him during these summer months 💚
Keep an eye on your horses during this hot weather, making sure they're drinking enough, getting electrolytes/salt, sweating, and not showing signs of heat distress.
