The weather is getting colder, here are 10 tips to keep your horse happy and healthy, through the colder spells!
❄️ Make sure they have plenty of forage - Eating is the best way to keep them warm as the digestion process creates heat.
❄️ Ensure they have access to plenty of fresh water - ensure water source has not frozen, also be aware some horses are less keen to drink ice cold water, so ensure you monitor they are drinking enough, reduced water intake puts them at risk of colic.
❄️ Give your horse a good full body groom before riding - this helps bring the blood supply to the muscles, joints and supporting structures aiding their warm up.
❄️ Increase your warm up time - cold muscles take longer to warm up, not warming up properly could lead to strains and poor performance.
❄️ Avoid exercising your horse too hard in cold air - Cold air can reduce lung function and put extra strain on their respiratory system.
❄️ Turn out as much as possible - we might prefer to stay snuggled in the cosy warmth, but horses will warm up better moving around.
❄️ Rug appropriately for your horse - horses don't feel the cold as quickly as we do, (most won't burn energy to stay warm until temperatures drop below 5°C) but if your horse is a youngster, older, underweight, has certain health conditions, or is clipped, they may need extra protection.
❄️If rugging your horse, ensure they are not over heating, which can be more dangerous than being a bit cold - signs include sweating, being very itchy when you remove the rug, lethargy or increased anxiety.
❄️ Add a warm mash or warm water to their hard feed - this reduces heat loss when eating and increases water intake. Just make sure it is not too hot!
❄️ Finally, each horse is an individual, keep an eye on any behaviour changes; check their temperature by placing the back of your hand on the chest between their forelegs; any concerns seek veterinary advice.