Winter tips for your Horse

Introduction

As the winter weather approaches, it’s important for you and your horse to be prepared. Here are some tips to help keep your equine partner safe, healthy and happy during the cold months ahead:

Use a rugged blanket and liner.

• Use a rugged blanket and liner.

If you don't already have one, it's time to invest in a waterproof, windproof blanket. Blankets are made from several different materials—cotton, wool, synthetics like polyester fleece or microfiber—and each type’s properties will vary depending on how much use and abuse they get. A good rule of thumb is that if your horse tends to be hard on his/her equipment then go for something with higher durability; if not, look for something more lightweight and breathable (like cotton).

• Keep the hair intact by using a lining underneath the blanket.

You may be tempted to skip this step since liners can sometimes add bulk under thick winter blankets but don't let that deter you from using one: it’s essential when it comes to keeping those pesky fly masks from rubbing off all your horses mane during those long winter nights!

Keep a sturdy hoof pick handy.

A good hoof pick is a must-have tool for any horse owner. It's handy for cleaning out dirt, debris, and mud from the frog of your horse's hoof, as well as trimming the heels after you've removed a loose shoe. If you've ever accidentally dropped a whole bag of grain in your paddock or got stuck with a piece of hay stuck to your boots after feeding, this tool can help!

Get your horse in shape before winter arrives.

If your horse is overweight, start a weight loss program. Discuss with your vet if you’re not sure if your horse is overweight. If he isn’t, then begin conditioning exercises to prepare him for winter weather.

Here are some excellent ways to keep your horse fit and happy:

Be sure your horse has adequate shelter to protect it from the harsh elements.

Before you get your horse out in the elements, be sure to make sure that it has adequate shelter. A suitable horse shelter should:

• Be big enough for your horse to move around freely and lie down comfortably.

• Have a roof that is high enough to protect the horse from rain, snow, and wind (ideally 6 feet or taller).

• Have some kind of windbreak at least 1 foot away from the entrance so air can be circulated inside while still keeping out cold winds (a sheet of plywood works well).

Keep water flowing constantly.

• Keep water flowing constantly.

• A horse drinks up to 10 gallons of water a day, so make sure you have an ample supply.

• Give them 1 or 2 gallons each morning and again in the afternoon. If they don't drink the first time, try again later in the day (or even into the evening).

• If your horse has trouble drinking due to rain or cold weather, use a hose with warm water running through it until your horse gets used to it—you can also try adding some apple cider vinegar to help get them accustomed!

Have your veterinarian out at least once during the season.

• Have your veterinarian out at least once during the season.

• Make sure your horse is in good health before winter hits.

• Get your horse vaccinated for common winter viruses (EHV-1 and EHV-4).

• Check for signs of lameness, and if you see any, make an appointment with your vet as soon as possible. There are many causes for lameness in horses, but some of them can be life threatening if not treated properly.

• If you have a history of colic in past winters, be sure to have it checked out by a veterinarian just to be safe!

You can keep your horse happy and healthy this winter with these tips.

If you are looking to keep your horse healthy, happy and safe this winter, these tips will help.

• Keep your horse healthy: Winter is a time of year when many horses get sick due to the change in temperature. Make sure that you give your horse plenty of exercise during the day and keep him/her warm at night with blankets and hay.

• Keep your horse happy: Horses enjoy being outdoors but also need shelter from wind and rain as well as good quality food during the winter months. Feeding a high-energy supplement can help keep them active during cold spells but ensure they have enough fibre or hay to aid digestion too.

• Keep your horse safe: Make sure that all fences are secure so that they are not damaged by strong winds or heavy snowfall which could cause injury if they fell on someone's head!

Conclusion

Keeping your horse happy and healthy this winter is easier than you might think. Just follow our tips, and you’ll be well on your way to keeping your horse happy and healthy throughout the season.