Ice packs or rubbing alcohol also help lower the temperature. Put the water or ice pack over the legs, head, neck and large blood vessels to be most effective. Veterinarians have always advised against using cold water or ice over large muscles, to prevent cramping. However, through research at the Olympic games in Atlanta in 1996, we've learned that using cold water or ice on the horse's skin surface is an excellent and safe cooling technique. Intravenous fluid administered by your veterinarian may be essential in critically dehydrated horses.
Sunburn is a problem for horses.
Signs of sunburn include tissue swelling, inflammation and cracked, peeling skin. As scabs peel away, raw, ulcerated areas are revealed underneath. Because sunburn only affects pink skin, photosensitized horses will burn on white markings on the face, muzzle and legs. Zinc oxide applied over the pink skin may help alleviate sunburn. Photosensitization is a common problem in horses with pink or non-pigmented skin that overreacts to sunlight.