Grazing is not permitted on the scarce desert vegetation as it is damaging to the fragile desert environment. Pressed pellet feed is preferable to grain because it provides complete nourishment and does not compete with native vegetation if spilled. When hiking during the summer, remember to rest frequently, wear a hat that protects you from the sun, and watch for symptoms of heat related illness. Excessive perspiration, cool clammy skin, feeling light headed or nauseous, may indicate heat exhaustion. If not treated, heat exhaustion can lead to heat stroke which is life threatening and indicated by hot, dry red skin and anxious or irrational behavior.
Treatment includes getting into a shaded area and cooling exposed skin areas with wet cloths.
Summer thundershowers build quickly in the desert, drenching unprepared hikers. Such soaking makes hypothermia a real possibility even in the summer. Hypothermia results when the body cannot keep itself warm. Early symptoms are shivering, drowsiness, and fatigue. The patient should be given dry clothing, hot drinks, and be protected from the wind, rain and cold.