Winter Care for Your Horse: Tips for a Cozy and Healthy Season

Baby, it’s cold outside! Regardless of your location, the drop in temperature and weather changes necessitate adjustments in your farm and riding routines. From ice prevention and proper warm-up techniques to blanketing and hoof care, here’s how to keep your horse comfortable and healthy this winter.

Ice Prevention

In warmer climates, ice prevention may involve simple measures like letting faucets and spigots drip on nights with freezing temperatures. In colder regions, however, spreading salt on walkways to prevent slips and ensuring water buckets don’t freeze become essential routines. It's crucial to address potential colic caused by inadequate water intake during this season.

Winter Blanketing

To Clip or Not to Clip?

Or more accurately, To Blanket or Not to Blanket? It’s common to worry your horse is cold because you are. However, here’s a guideline for when to start blanketing:

Body Clipped Horses: Begin blanketing when temperatures fall below 60°F or during rainy or windy conditions.
Moderate Hair Coat Horses: Start blanketing when temperatures drop below 40°F.
Heavy Hair Coat Horses: Begin blanketing when temperatures fall below 30°F.

Winter Hoof Care

In colder areas, consider removing your horse’s shoes during winter. This practice enhances hoof expansion, circulation, and overall health. In snowy regions, removing shoes prevents snowballing in the hoof, reducing the risk of bruising, abscesses, and slipping. Additionally, metal shoes can exacerbate freezing issues.

Winter Feeding

Hay is Key! Properly cured hay provides major calorie sources, but be aware of nutrient losses over time. Older hay may lose some essential vitamins and minerals. Understanding these deficiencies allows you to maintain optimal nutrition for your horse throughout the winter months.

Warming Up

Even if you live in a milder winter climate, your horse still experiences temperature changes. Taking extra time to warm up your horse, both in and out of the saddle, can significantly impact your ride. Consult your vet about stretching exercises to promote efficiency in your horse’s movement and muscle development. Check out our TikTok for helpful content on horse stretching.

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