Preparing Senior Horses for the Summer Months

As the days grow longer and temperatures climb, the dedicated team at Ryerss Farm for Aged Equines is focused on ensuring that every retired resident remains comfortable, healthy, and happy. At Ryerss, our business is caring for aged, abused, or injured horses, providing a home where they can spend their golden years out to pasture. The horses at Ryerss never work, go to auction, or are used for experiments. They simply spend their days grazing and enjoying life with their friends, as part of the herd. With a mission centered on providing lifelong sanctuary and compassionate care, Ryerss Farm tailors its summer management practices to the unique needs of these cherished senior horses.

Hydration Is Key

Older horses are particularly vulnerable to dehydration, which can quickly lead to colic and other health issues. At Ryerss Farm, staff ensure that all horses have constant access to fresh, clean water—whether they're in one of the scenic pastures or inside their stalls. In addition to strategically placed water troughs, soaked hay and mashes are sometimes used to help boost water intake, especially for horses with dental issues or diminished thirst response.

Smart Scheduling of Turnout and Exercise

Many of the horses at Ryerss enjoy turnout in the farm’s rolling pastures, but timing is everything. The team avoids turnout during the peak heat of midday, instead opting for early morning or late evening hours when it’s cooler. This schedule helps minimize the risk of overheating and sunburn while allowing the horses to graze and socialize comfortably.

Protecting Sensitive Skin and Coats

With age often comes thinner skin and a more delicate coat, leaving some horses more susceptible to sunburn and insect irritation. Ryerss staff regularly apply equine-safe sunscreen to pink-skinned areas, such as noses and around eyes, and use fly masks, sheets, and fans to protect against bugs and UV rays. Grooming sessions are a daily ritual, helping horses stay clean and cool and allowing caretakers to monitor for skin issues.

Health Monitoring and Diet Adjustments

Routine health checks are crucial during the summer months. Our staff and veterinarian are trained to recognize early signs of heat stress, such as heavy sweating, elevated respiration, or lethargy, and to respond quickly. Older horses at the farm often require specialized diets, and adjustments are made seasonally to ensure each horse maintains a healthy weight and digestive balance.

Effective Parasite Control

Summer also brings increased exposure to internal parasites. Ryerss Farm works closely with our veterinarian to conduct fecal egg counts and implement deworming protocols that are both effective and gentle on senior digestive systems. Pasture rotation and manure management are also part of the farm’s integrated parasite control strategy.

A Place to Thrive in Retirement

Ryerss Farm isn’t just a retirement space—it’s a community where horses live out their golden years with dignity, companionship, and exceptional care. The challenges of summer are met with thoughtful planning, experience, and love. Whether it's a horse who spent years on the racetrack or one who served in therapeutic riding, each resident is treated with the honor and attention they deserve!

Join the Mission

Caring for senior horses is a labor of love—and one that the Ryerss community invites everyone to join. Whether through volunteering, donations, or simply spreading awareness, your support makes a meaningful difference. Learn more about how you can support our mission.