The 2024 Olympic season has set Paris ablaze, not just with the fervor of competition but with record-breaking temperatures. As the city sizzles under an unrelenting sun, athletes and spectators alike are finding ways to stay cool. But while humans have the luxury of shade and hydration, our Equidae friends face a different challenge in the sweltering heat.

July in Paris saw temperatures soar past the usual 78.8°F, creating a stifling environment for everyone, especially the horses participating in the Equestrian games. These majestic animals, with their thick coats and high sensitivity to heat, require special attention to avoid overheating. The Olympic staff has risen to the occasion, ensuring these equine athletes receive the utmost care. From misting fans to cool-down stations, every measure is taken to keep them comfortable and safe.

Volunteers at the Paris Olympics taking care of an Equestrian horse

A reporter captured a captivating behind-the-scenes moment of an Equestrian horse enjoying a refreshing mist bath under the Parisian sun. The Grand Prix events are in full swing at the Olympics, with fans at the venue reveling in the elegance of Dressage performances. Amidst the stifling humidity, it’s crucial to keep these magnificent animals cool, as they bear the brunt of the physical exertion that brings glory to their nations.

The video, shared on X, showcases a stunning horse in a small, shaded area beside a building, surrounded by misting fans spraying cool water.

Dedicated volunteers, likely from the same team, gently wipe the horse down with damp cloths, ensuring it stays comfortable and hydrated. The horse stands patiently, basking in the care and attention of its handlers. Just like their human counterparts, horses can feel even hotter after intense exercise, making post-event routines vital for their well-being. This scene highlights the continuous care these noble creatures receive, both before and after their performances, ensuring they remain in peak condition throughout the competition.

Care routine of a competitive horse: Know what will happen to them after the Paris Olympics

Immediately after the horses are done with any Equestrian event, they need time to cool off. Ideally, they are taken on a 15-minute walk to let their adrenaline wash away and help them relax. Just like with humans, this helps decrease a horse’s heart rate and body temperature to a normal level. After all, you would want your competitive companion to be calm. It is also essential to check for potential injuries and stains immediately afterwards to help make sure that the horse is in perfect health. If not, mostly everything can be fixed early on and help add to its longevity.

Unlike most of their human friends, horses tend to like ice baths as it helps them against any inflammation after an event or training. At last, it is also important to pay attention to their pedicure sessions even if you ignore yours. Equid hoofs can get injured. Think of them as nails: an infection can affect the immediate body part that they are connected to. This is an ideal care routine for a horse that is not in the wild but under the care of humans and is treated like an athlete.

So far it looks like the Denmark horses are doing great on the field over during the 2024 Summer Games. What are your thoughts on the Equestrian games at the Paris Olympics?