As the nights draw in and the weather is colder and wetter, now’s a good time for horse lovers and pony owners to put together a winter care regime.
The key is horses actually like the cold and their bodies adapt for the cooler weather, so it’s crucial to base your care around their natural defences.
Of course, how you look after your horse over winter depends on the animal’s breed, age, and health.
First step in preparing for the colder weather is benchmarking current health. You know your horse or pony better than anyone and should be able to spot any bumps, bruises or ailments that should not be there, however slight.
Getting a feel for problems
Checking out body condition is something you can do while grooming by feeling over the horse as you go for anything suspicious. Feeling rather than just looking is advisable because any extra growth of winter hair may cover something that needs sorting out.
This winter coat is a greasy, waterproof thermal layer that keeps out cold and rain.
Consider changing the diet or put more food out, because a small layer of extra body fat can soon be exercised off in the spring but provides an additional layer of warmth in the winter.
A visit from the vet is also well worth considering to make sure immunisations are up-to-date and all parasites like fleas and worms have been dealt with.
Blanket coverage
Many owners opt for a winter blanket to give a horse or pony and more comfortable time in the winter.
Layered blankets – with a water and windproof external cover, a layer of insulation and a soft inner layer that does not rub or itch – are often suggested as the best winter wear. Don’t forget to keep an eye on the weather, as a blanket should be taken off as the weather improves to stop condensation caused by the animal sweating.
Make sure the blanket is warm – the weight keeps the coat flat and stops the winter growth retaining heat. The wrong blanket is double trouble as it does not keep the horse warm and stops the horse keeping itself warm.
Extra hay is a great source of warmth for your horse or pony when the temperatures fall.
