Summer secrets

From beach rides and camps to competition days and clinics, summer offers endless opportunities to have fun with your fave pony. However, you really don’t want health issues to halt your plans. With a little attention to detail you can keep your pony looking and feeling their best all through the hotter months of the year. Let’s find out more!

TOP TIP

Buying a fly mask with a nose cover provides UV protection for pink-nosed ponies.

Skin solutions

Ponies with pink skin are particularly prone to getting sunburnt when it’s hot. If you need to offer protection, apply pony-safe suncream before riding or turning out.

Summer is also a peak season for skin infections, because even the smallest of cuts can quickly attract flies. If your pony has a small cut, ask an experienced adult to help you deal with it promptly and, if in doubt, call your vet.

Weight to go

Managing your pony’s weight in summer can be tricky, especially if they’re a good-doer. Being overweight places more stress on your pony’s joints and body systems, and can lead to metabolic issues such as laminitis, too. To help keep your pony trim…

• weight tape and body condition score every fortnight and track the results so you can spot changes
• restrict access to grass by strip grazing, using a track system, or fitting a muzzle when turned out
• soak hay for at least one hour to reduce sugar levels

Fly free

One of the biggest summer challenges is keeping flies and other biting insects away from your pony. As well as stocking up on fly repellent, cover your pony with a well-fitting fly rug and mask when they’re in the field. Keeping your pony’s field, stable and the surrounding areas of the yard clean and tidy will discourage flies, too.

TOP TIP

If your pony suffers with sweet itch, special care is needed. Talk to your vet for advice.

Did you know?

There are supplements you can feed your pony that are designed to deter flies.

For more of our summer secrets, pick up a copy of July PONY – on sale now!