As summer comes galloping in, it’s time to get creative with ways to help our equine friends stay cool and hydrated. In this blog post, we’re sharing some delicious, healthy, and cooling treat ideas that your horse will absolutely love. These homemade goodies are not just a fun way to spoil your horse, but they also provide essential nutrients and hydration. So, let’s saddle up and venture into the world of equine culinary delights!
1. Frozen Apple and Carrot Cubes
Horses love apples and carrots, making them the perfect base for a refreshing summer treat. Chop up these fruits and veggies, place them in an ice cube tray or muffin tin, fill with water or unsweetened apple juice, and freeze. These icy snacks will not only help cool your horse down but also provide essential vitamins and minerals.
2. Minty Melon Balls
Watermelon and mint make a hydrating and refreshing combination that horses find irresistible. Scoop out watermelon balls (remember to remove seeds!), chop up some fresh mint, and freeze them together in a muffin tin. These fruity, herb-infused treats are a fantastic way to replenish fluids and electrolytes on a hot day.
3. Frozen Banana and Oat Pops
For a potassium-rich, cooling treat, mash up some ripe bananas, mix them with oats, and freeze the mixture in a popsicle mold or ice cube tray. The oats add a nice crunch that horses love and are a great source of fiber.
4. Hydrating Hay Cubes
Soak your horse’s favorite hay in water until it’s thoroughly wet, then pack it into a bucket or large mold and freeze. Once frozen, you can unmold a giant, hydrating hay cube that your horse can enjoy as a cooling snack.
5. DIY Electrolyte Pops
Mix a scoop of electrolyte supplement with water, add chopped apples or carrots, and freeze in a muffin tin or ice cube tray. These electrolyte pops are not only refreshing but also help replenish your horse’s electrolytes, essential for maintaining hydration and proper muscle function.
Summer is a wonderful time to get creative with your horse’s diet. These refreshing, nutritious treats will not only help your horse stay cool and hydrated, but they’ll also add a fun twist to their regular feeding routine. Remember, while treats are an excellent way to bond with your horse and provide extra nutrition, they should be given in moderation and as part of a balanced diet. Here’s to a summer filled with happy trails and happy, healthy horses!
