How to Protect Your Horse from the Sun

With the weather warming up, the sun is coming out. As if it was not bad enough to have to worry about the onslaught of bugs, you also have to worry about the sun. Colored horses do not have to worry as much, unless they have white markings. This is because melanin, what gives color literally blocks the UV rays. Without it, some horses with get a rash, blisters, pink skin which may chaff, and also may cause more serious, detrimental effects on the coat. What can you do?

You can put on protective apparel on the horse. It will help block the sun's rays. If you cannot do that, try putting on sunscreen. Watch for an allergy reaction to the product though. Horses may be bigger than us, but their skin is far more sensitive. And last of all, try limiting the horse's exposure to the sun. Put them in the barn or in the shade while the blazing sun is at its hottest.
Just remember that they will need even more fresh water to prevent dehydration. 
If your horse has a sunburn, put on some zinc oxide cream. It is commonly found in diaper rash cream. Just watch out for any added perfumes and other additives. It would be bad to have allergy hives on top of a sunburn!