If a horse has dry, tacky mucous membranes, what should be the next step?

In cases where a horse presents with dry, tacky mucous membranes, this often indicates potential dehydration or an underlying health issue. The presence of these symptoms suggests that the horse may not be receiving adequate hydration, which could lead to more serious complications if not addressed promptly.

Calling a veterinarian is the appropriate response in this scenario, as they can assess the horse's overall condition, determine the cause of the dehydration, and provide necessary treatment. The vet may perform tests to evaluate hydration levels and recommend appropriate interventions, such as intravenous fluids or changes in management practices.

Monitoring hydration is certainly important and should be part of ongoing care, but it does not address the immediate need for professional evaluation when serious symptoms like dry, tacky mucous membranes are present. Feeding hay or exercising the horse could exacerbate the situation if the horse is indeed dehydrated, as these actions do not address the underlying issue of hydration. Therefore, contacting a veterinarian is the most responsible course of action.