Hooved Animal Rescue & Protection Society

When the summer sun is blazing, horse owners need to watch for overheating. ☀️

But do you know the difference between a horse that is experiencing Heat Stress (a serious warning) and one that has crossed into Heat Stroke (a life-threatening emergency)?

​Because horses are so massive, they trap heat easily and cool down slowly. Missing the transition from stress to stroke can happen fast.

Information about screwworms from AAEP:

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☀️Lazy day around HARPS Rescue ☀️

The weather is beautiful, and our herd is loving it! We’ve got horses stretched out flat in the pasture catching some serious rays, others taking a happy stroll with Donna, and a whole lot of faces buried deep in the lush, green grass.

The warm sun helps soothe old, achy joints, the fresh grass is a sweet reward, and the peaceful vibe reminds them that they are safe, loved, and exactly where they belong! ❤️

Have a picture of your horse enjoying the nice weather? Share it in the comments below!

Throwback Thursday ❤️

Did you know HARPS has an equine ambulance?

This specialized trailer was created and designed by HARPS Founder Donna Ewing. The ambulance contains a custom built scaffold and sling set up for transporting a downed animal or one too weak to stand on its own.

This large custom built rig makes it possible to save horses like Tiger!

Did you know that horses can get sunburnt just like us? Horses with white markings, pink skin, or light-colored coats are especially vulnerable to the sun's harsh UV rays.

How to Protect Your Herd:

1. Shift Turnout Times: If possible, stable horses during peak UV hours (mid-day) and let them graze from dusk to dawn.

2. Gear Up: Invest in UV-blocking fly sheets and full-face fly masks to protect sensitive eyes and faces.

3. Lather Up: Apply equine-safe (or sensitive-skin human baby) sunscreen to vulnerable, non-pigmented spots like the muzzle and nose. Just be sure to avoid the eyes!

Check out this great infographic from the AAEP (American Association of Equine Practitioners) for a quick guide on what to watch out for this season.

If you notice severe blistering, peeling, or suspect photosensitization, always give your vet a call for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan!

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Summer is here, and with it comes a significant fire hazard found in nearly every horse barn out there!

The basic average residential box fan, available for $10-$15 at Walmart or Home Depot, is not designed to withstand the extended use or environmental factors in the barn. Dust, dirt, hay, and/or bedding particles can clog the fans, creating the ideal conditions for a fire.

On any given day, a residential box fan WILL FAIL and catch fire in a barn. Do you want to play Russian roulette with your (or your clients’) horses? Do you want your facility in the background of a photo showing a burned to the ground barn, and a melted, twisted box fan pulled from the debris as the source of the fire?

Horses give off a tremendous amount of humidity year-round. If the barn does not ventilate – even in winter – the humidity can cause the fans to rust and deteriorate more rapidly (in addition to spreading respiratory and other bacteria throughout the barn).

Agricultural grade fans may cost more at the initial outlay, but what is your peace of mind, your horse, your reputation worth? These fans are specifically designed for long periods of use in dusty environments. There are wall mount fans and floor fans available for under $100 that will last for years, not just a few months. Some excellent resources include:

www.bigassfans.com/for-business/agriculture/equine/
www.farmtek.com
www.grainger.com > search for “Barn and Agricultural Fans”
www.northerntool.com > search “agricultural fan”
www.southernstates.com > search “fan”
www.tractorsupply.com > search “fan,” (must include comma)

Inspect all cords for exposed wiring. Many outer coatings are made of corn syrup, which is incredibly appealing to rodents and other critters; they may have been chewed on while in winter storage. All wiring should be in metal sheath conduit such as solid conduit or BX type cables, even in concealed areas. Always use UL-rated fixtures and properly installed electrical fixtures and fittings, and avoid extension cords whenever possible.

Consult with a licensed electrician who is familiar with the loads in a barn (and be sure to mention the full-size refrigerator, coffee maker, heat lamps, hot water heater, washer, dryer, and microwave in the tack or viewing room, so s/he fully and accurately understands the power demand) and recommends the appropriate wiring and safety precautions.

The open area at the top of your stall wall at the eave of the roof is there to ventilate the barn – it should be checked regularly to make sure any windows or screens are clean and clear of debris, to encourage good air flow (and take advantage of all that free light (aka sunshine) as well!). Any fans should be cleaned regularly as well - dust is highly flammable as well as irritating to both human and equine lungs alike.

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The warm weather is officially here and so is fly & mosquito season!

​As the temperatures rise, the battle against flies and mosquitoes in the barn begins. Check out the below tips to help keep your horses comfortable and healthy!

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Equine Dental Health: Why it Matters! 🐴🦷

Does your horse drop feed or struggle with the bit? Routine dental checks are critical for their comfort and nutrition. Because horse teeth grow continuously, they often develop issues like sharp points, hooks, or uneven wear that require professional attention.

Left untreated, these dental problems can lead to painful lacerations, weight loss, and even digestive issues. Don’t wait for a problem to appear, schedule a dental exam today to keep your horse happy and healthy!