It's nearly 90 degrees today in Ohio and my 2 mares don't seem to want to move from their paddock/run-in. There are far more trees (none poisonous) and shade in their adjoining pasture, yet they only grazed for about 10 minutes this morning when I first opened the gate. PLENTY of grass in there with barely a weed.

I hosed them down (they LOVE that!) and they rolled in the mud, they've been fly-sprayed, and are wearing their masks, too. They're not running temperatures, they've been wormed, and have had their shots.

They seem to be comfortable standing, but I worry that they're not eating (they are just nibbling on hay I left out for them). There's plenty of fresh water and they are drinking.

1.When it's so hot, is it normal for them to not want to chow down on grass when it's available?

2. Since they have already been weaned on the grass, is it safe let them have access to the pasture 24/7 now? Perhaps they'd prefer to graze at night.

It's normal for horses to stop grazing and stand in the shade when it's hot out- our horses do this all the time, and they live out on a 24/7 basis year round. Your mares will resume grazing when the temperature drops and it's cooler, and they are more comfortable moving around. Standing and sleeping in hot weather helps conserve energy, and makes it easier for the horse to breathe and cool itself. Just make sure that they have access to plenty of clean water, and some shade to stand in, and that they are protected from the flies and bugs, and you'll do okay. Good luck !!

Filed under: Ohio hay

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