If you're like me, you love summer - all the opportunities to ride, the long days, the balmy evenings...

Here are some hints to make summer better for you and your horses:

1. When out riding, always bring plenty of water -even if you think you are not going far.

2. Carry a stick of insect repellent with you when riding - its great for you and also good for your horse - easy to carry and no spraying (which some horses hate).

3. Clean out your trough frequently - in the summer, algae builds up quite quickly.

4. Remember summer grasses might not be as nutritious as you'd expect. Keep an eye on your horse's condition and supplement if necessary.

5. Don't forget that horses that are prone to laminitis (founder) CAN and do founder in summer, not just on the lush spring grasses.

6. Keep your stable fly free. Clean it out at LEAST once a day and occasionally spray with something like "Coopex", to keep the flies down. Spray before you clean the straw/base to get rid of any residue.

7. Allow your horse's feet to absorb moisture. If possible, make a damp patch for them to stand in so their hooves don't dry out. Then rub some clean oil to keep the moisture in.

8.Shade!! All animals need shade from the sun. A few trees, or even a 3 sided shelter is sufficient.

9. Pale coloured horses, like fair people are more prone to skin cancers. Keep them protected with shade or a sun sheet. When riding animals with pink skinned noses, apply sunscreen.

10. Always rub/scrape your horses down after hosing. The layer of moisture traps heat and that refreshing hose-down can turn uncomfortable.