Dehydration can lead to a number of issues. Why is it important for owners to have fresh water constantly on offer and how can they encourage horses to drink?

Dehydration can lead to impaction colic due to the faeces becoming abnormally dry in the large intestine. Fresh water must be constantly available so that the horse is never thirsty and always has a steady flow through his intestine and kidneys. Sprinkling a handful of table salt onto the feed can encourage a horse to drink more. Electrolyte supplementation should also be considered if excessive sweating has occurred. Soaking hay and wetting feed can also help to increase the daily water intake.