The glorious sunshine is a welcome sight, but for horse owners, it brings the dual challenge of keeping both themselves and their equine companions safe from harmful UV rays. Just like us, horses can suffer from sunburn, and prolonged exposure can lead to skin damage and discomfort. So, how can we ensure our four-legged friends and ourselves stay protected while enjoying the summer months? Let's delve into some essential UV protection solutions.
For Our Horses:
Rug Up with UV Protection:
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- A good quality fly sheet with UV protection is a must-have. Consider the Kool Coat Cotton Airstream II Detach-A-Neck. This rug offers impressive 90%+ UV protection (excluding mesh areas), shielding your horse from the sun's harsh rays while keeping those pesky flies at bay. It's a fantastic way to provide all-over protection, especially for sensitive horses.
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Face the Sun Safely:
- Don't forget the delicate areas around your horse's face. The Shires FlyGuard Pro Deluxe Fly Mask With Ears & Nose provides excellent coverage, with a 70%+ average UV blocking, significantly reducing the risk of sunburn. This mask ensures your horse's eyes, ears, and nose are shielded from harmful rays.
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Sunblock Saviours:
- For those extra vulnerable areas, a reliable sunblock is essential. Lincoln Sun Bloc offers maximum protection, utilising naturally occurring Zinc Oxide, a proven UV filter, alongside two additional UV filters to reflect and absorb both UVA and UVB rays. Its water-resistant properties ensure prolonged protection, even during those unexpected summer showers.
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Avoid Oil-Based Products:
- It's important to avoid oil-based products on your horse's skin in direct sunlight. Oil can magnify the sun's rays, potentially leading to sunburn and skin irritation. Opt for water-based or zinc oxide-based sunscreens specifically formulated for equine use.
For the Rider:
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Technical Tops for Sun Safety:
- Riders need protection too! The Toggi GBR Womens Airy Technical Polo Top is a brilliant choice, offering UPF 50+ protection. This ensures you can ride comfortably and safely, knowing you're shielded from the sun's harmful rays.
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Glove Up:
- Protecting your hands is often overlooked. The E.L.T Sunny Riding Glove features UV-permeable power mesh, offering some protection, while maintaining airflow.
Key Takeaways:
- UV protection is crucial for both horses and riders during the summer months.
- Invest in quality products like UV-protective rugs, fly masks, and sunblocks for your horse.
- Choose technical riding apparel with UPF ratings for your own safety.
- Always avoid oil based products on your horse in direct sunlight.
- Remember to apply sunblock to exposed areas of your own skin, even when wearing protective clothing.
By taking these precautions, you and your horse can enjoy the summer sunshine safely and comfortably. Remember, prevention is always better than cure when it comes to sun protection.
