Heat stress in competing horses

Heat stress can lead to organ failure and death, and should not be underestimated by horse riders or owners, warns Dr Mac.

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In most of South Africa, humidity is low throughout the year. As such, horse riders may not be aware that humidity plays an important role in heat stress in horses.

With global warming, South Africa’s humidity index may change. Horses competing in disciplines such as endurance racing, showjumping, eventing and racing are most susceptible to heat stress, and there are international guidelines in place to prevent this during competitions. These guidelines are based on measuring relative humidity and ambient temperature as the WetBulb Globe Temperature (WBGT). The same measurement is used for estimating the likelihood of heat stress occurring during sporting events for human athletes.

SIGNS OF HEAT STRESS