Horse back ridding in the summer

When you're riding on hot summer days there are a few things you should keep in mind. First of all, before you go for a ride during the summer you should always put fly spray on your horse; either spray it directly on your horse or spray some onto a cloth and rub it on your horse if he/she doesn't like sprays. The reason you should always put fly spray on your horse in the summer is because it's during the summer when all the flies and bugs are out and about. Flies, horse flies, horse bees and other bugs will bite your horse during your ride and could get your horse very annoyed which would result in a very unpleasant ride. You can buy fly spray at your local tack store or simply make you own!

1. 

   Things You'll Need:

   • 4 oz Avon Skin So Soft
   • 1 oz Citronella Oil
   • 12 oz Vinegar (white or apple cider will do)
   • 12 oz Water
   • Spray bottle

   Mix all ingredients in spray bottle and shake gently to combine. Now you're ready to use it!(http://www.ehow.com/how_2090046_horse-fly-spray.html)

   Secondly, don't over work you're horse when it's hot and humid. This evidently wouldn't be good for him/her and he/she could get a heat stroke. Don't stay out in the sun for longer then an hour. If you're cantering and jumping be sure to give your horse a break regularly to catch his/her breath. Also when you're done riding ALWAYS cool down your horse. You should never put a hot sweaty horse into his/her stall!

   Finally, when you're finished riding sponge off your horse where he's sweating the most, generally the saddle area and where the bridle was sitting behind his ears. You could also just bathe your horse if he's very hot and sweaty.