Preparing Your Yard and Arena for Summer

As summer approaches, it’s essential to ensure your equestrian surface is ready to provide a safe, comfortable, and high-performance environment for both horses and riders. The warmer months bring unique challenges from heat stress and dehydration to dusty arenas and fly infestations but with the right preparation, your yard and arena can continue performing at their best throughout the season.

1. Hydration and Water Management

With temperatures rising, ensuring your horses have access to cool, clean drinking water is vital. Dehydration can lead to serious health issues such as colic and heat exhaustion. Here’s how to stay on top of it:

• Clean all water troughs and buckets regularly to prevent algae and bacteria buildup.
• Check automatic drinkers for functionality and leaks.
• Consider positioning troughs in shaded areas to keep water cooler for longer.
• If your horses are turned out for most of the day, ensure there is enough water per field to support the number of horses.

2. Effective Fly and Pest Control

Summer is the peak season for flies, midges, and other pests. Left unmanaged, these can stress horses, cause infections, and create an uncomfortable working environment. Steps to reduce pest issues include:

• Daily mucking out of stables and removal of manure from paddocks.
• Use of natural fly repellents, sprays, and physical barriers like fly masks, rugs, and leg wraps.
• Installing fly traps in barns and common areas.
• Ensuring good drainage around the yard to reduce standing water, which attracts mosquitoes.

3. Shade, Shelter and Sun Protection

Providing adequate shade during the summer is crucial. Whether through trees, man-made shelters, or field shelters, horses should have the ability to escape direct sun, especially during the hottest part of the day (11am to 3pm).

In addition:

• Use UV-protective sheets and fly rugs to help shield coats and prevent sun-bleaching.
• Apply equine-safe sunscreen to pink or sensitive areas, especially around the muzzle and eyes.

4. Arena Surface Care and Dust Control

Dry, compacted arena surfaces are a common challenge during summer. Without adequate moisture and maintenance, surfaces can become dusty and uneven, increasing the risk of injury and reducing ride quality.

Key summer surface tips:

• Watering: Use a watering system or tanker to dampen the surface consistently. This helps control dust and maintain elasticity.
• Levelling: Regular harrowing or grading helps keep the surface consistent and prevents deep or compacted spots.
• Dust Suppression Aids: If water is limited, consider using arena conditioners or dust-binding products designed to retain moisture.

Looking for a long-term solution? Consider upgrading to a low-maintenance, all-weather surface like Flexiride from Equestrian Direct. Its moisture-retaining properties and shock absorption make it ideal for summer use and year-round consistency. You can also explore the full Arena Surfaces range to find the best fit for your needs.

5. Arena Perimeter and Drainage Checks

Summer often brings a mix of dry spells and heavy rainfall. This means your drainage must be able to cope with sudden downpours while your perimeter remains tidy and safe.

• Clear any built-up debris from around the arena edges.
• Check perimeter fencing and kickboards for damage.
• Make sure drainage channels are not blocked or overgrown with weeds.

6. Yard Maintenance and Fencing

Your yard often takes a beating during winter, and summer is the perfect time to make repairs:

• Walk the perimeter of each field and check fence posts, rails, and gates for signs of wear.
• Oil or repaint gates and fixtures to prevent rust.
• Strim back any overgrowth or weeds from pathways and stable blocks.
• Clean concrete or rubber matting areas to prevent slipping in wet conditions after rainfall.

7. Paddock and Grazing Management

Pasture health is just as important in summer as it is in spring. Overgrazing can quickly occur, and dry conditions may lead to sparse grass growth.

• Rotate fields to give overused areas a chance to recover.
• Remove toxic weeds like ragwort, which thrive in dry conditions.
• Avoid over-seeding in peak summer – this is best done in early autumn.
• If turnout is limited, consider providing hay in the field and shade access to reduce stress.

8. Summer Stable Adjustments

• Ensure stables are well-ventilated to promote airflow.
• Avoid direct sun into stable doors during peak heat – consider stable fans or shade panels.
• Monitor bedding closely; high heat can lead to faster bacterial growth.
• Store feed, supplements and medications in cool, dry areas to prevent spoilage.

9. Safety and Emergency Preparedness

With the increased risk of heat-related issues, it’s essential to be ready for emergencies:

• Keep a well-stocked equine first aid kit accessible.
• Make sure all team members are trained to spot signs of overheating, dehydration, or colic.
• Post your vet’s emergency contact number in prominent places.
• Avoid exercising horses during peak heat and always cool them down properly.

Summer brings longer days and more time to enjoy riding and turnout, but it also requires extra diligence in how you manage your equestrian space. With regular upkeep and a proactive approach to hydration, shading, surface maintenance and safety, your yard and arena can stay in top shape throughout the season.

Ready to invest in an arena surface that performs no matter the season? Explore Flexiride or speak to our team at Equestrian Direct for tailored advice.