Heat harsh on horse hair

 First it was hot, then it was cool, then it was hot again. It's been a weather roller coaster for all of us, but horses have an unusual problem.

 We were forwarded an e-mail from Jim Moor of Cowboy Boot Camp in Rolling Hills Estatesm, who explains the problem. What's a horse to do? "Unlike human hair which can grow about a half inch a month, a healthy equine's winter coat can develop quickly over a few days," Moore wrote.

"A horse's natural coat is their first defense in cold weather. When allowed to grow, a horse's heavier winter haircoat acts as a very effective thermal blanket, it increases both in length and density as days grow cooler and shorter. With temps in triple digits in some areas, responsible horse owners should be aware of horses overheating and check them for dehydration.

"Because of Southern California's unpredictable weather changes, people are having to begin their grooming regimen sooner this year to accommodate for their horse's early thick coats."

 You can find out more about this vexing problem at www.cowboybootcamp.net.