IN my herd of seven, I have two with pink noses and I’ve tried a good few creams to keep those soft pads from burning in the hotter weather. I’m going to be honest, my old mare is somewhat wise to the cream application process after 24 years and it’s not as easy to get it on her nose as it used to be. A molasses lick and sleight of hand can just about keep her still long enough to slather it on, nine times out of 10.

As Ireland continues to experience warmer summers and higher UV levels, it’s worth remembering that sunshine can pose genuine welfare concerns for some horses, particularly those with pink skin and white markings.

Grey horses, coloureds and animals with pale noses are often the first to show signs of sun damage during prolonged dry spells. While many owners are careful about rugs, flies and hydration during hot weather, sunburn can still catch people by surprise, especially after several consecutive bright days.

Graze comfortably

The muzzle is one of the most vulnerable areas. Horses with pink noses can quickly develop sore, reddened skin, which may later crack, peel or scab. In some cases, horses become sensitive around the mouth and reluctant to graze comfortably. You may notice head shaking, rubbing or irritation around the nostrils and lips.

Areas around the eyes can also be affected, particularly in horses with limited pigmentation. Severe sun exposure can sometimes contribute to painful skin inflammation or secondary infections during the height of summer too.

For many owners, prevention has become part of the daily routine during hot weather. UV-protective fly masks are now a common sight on yards across the country, while zinc creams (like my go-to Sudocrem) and child-safe sun creams are regularly applied to vulnerable noses before turnout. Some owners are also changing turnout patterns altogether, opting to stable horses during the hottest hours and turn them out overnight instead.

Shade in fields is becoming increasingly important too. Horses living out full-time may seek shelter naturally during peak sunshine, but not every paddock provides adequate cover. Trees, hedgerows and field shelters can all play an important role during prolonged periods of heat.

Additional management

Photosensitivity can occasionally indicate something more serious than straightforward sunburn. Certain plants, medications and liver conditions may leave horses unusually sensitive to sunlight, leading to more dramatic skin reactions. Vets advise owners to seek advice if skin lesions appear suddenly, spread rapidly or fail to heal normally.

Although pink-skinned horses often attract admiration for their striking appearance, they can require additional management during summer months. As weather patterns continue to shift, many owners are finding that sun protection is no longer simply an optional extra, but an increasingly important part of everyday equine care.

While owners are careful to protect horses from the effects of strong sunshine, human health should not be overlooked either. Long hours spent outdoors around stables, fields, races and shows can leave riders, grooms and yard staff exposed to significant levels of UV radiation, increasing the risk of sunburn, premature skin ageing and skin cancer.

Dermatologists advise regular use of sunscreen, hats and UV-protective clothing during prolonged periods outside, particularly during the middle of the day when UV levels are high. A few simple precautions, can often spare you and your horses considerable discomfort later in the season.