08/09/2026
Summer is here, and so is the heat and humidity that comes with South Florida. Horses can heat up 3–10 times faster than humans during exercise, making it important to recognize the signs of heat stress before they become life-threatening.
⚠️ Signs of Heat Stress:
- Re**al temperature above **103°F**
- Increased heart rate
- Increased respiratory rate
- Profuse sweating
- Droopy ears
- Fatigue or lethargy
- Dehydration
- Skin tent lasting several seconds after pinching the neck or shoulder
- Reduced appetite
🚨 Signs of Heat Stroke
- Re**al temperature above **106°F**
- Heart rate and breathing that remain elevated **20 minutes after exercise**
- Distress or repeated whinnying
- Dry gums and severe dehydration (skin tent 4–10 seconds)
- Muscle weakness
- Incoordination
- Collapse
When to Call Your Veterinarian: If your horse has a temperature above **106°F**, collapses, shows neurological signs, or their temperature does not drop to **101°F or below** despite aggressive cooling, contact your veterinarian immediately. If you're ever unsure, it's always best to give your veterinarian a call.