Owners must take into account the fly sheet, the horse's breed and color, whether there is shade available, the horse’s body condition score (BCS), the air temperature, and the humidity when deciding whether to use a fly sheet. | Photo: iStock

Q.When is it too hot for my horse to wear a fly sheet? My friend and I both use fly sheets on our horses, but she leaves hers off if the weather gets really hot and humid. Should I do the same? I don’t want to hurt my horse.

—Christine, Tampa, Florida

A.This is a multi-factor question which you must take into account the fly sheet, the breed and color of horse you have, whether there is shade available, your horse’s body condition score (BCS), the air temperature, and the humidity. So let’s break this down