In the Northern Hemisphere, winter is knocking at our doors. Some might feel excited, but for many horse owners, winter brings its own set of challenges and complexity to daily horse care.
At Equicore Concepts, we are all about a holistic picture of horse health and care, so we thought we’d help you prep with a comprehensive list for winterizing your barn. As with most things, proactive preparation is key in ensuring that your horse stays comfortable and healthy through the season!
Without further ado, here are 10 essential strategies for winterizing your horsekeeping routine:
1. Inspect and Prepare Your Barn
Start with a thorough inspection of your farm to ensure that it is ready to provide a warm and safe environment. Check for drafts and seal gaps around windows and doors, and make repairs as needed. Whatever you do, don’t go overboard. Proper ventilation is crucial to avoid the buildup of ammonia and moisture, which can negatively affect equine respiratory health. Your goal with the barn inspection is to make sure the horses will be shielded from direct winds and precipitation.
2. Double-Check Access to Warm Water
Horses need access to fresh, unfrozen water at all times. In the winter, horses tend to drink less, which can lead to dehydration and an increased risk of colic. I remember distinctly at one of my horse caring jobs that the herd living year-round on pasture only had a pond water source, which regularly froze in the winter. Out I would go in the mornings with an ice ax and big gloves!
To avoid this, and if possible, consider investing in heated water buckets or automatic waterers, which can help to keep water at a drinkable temperature. Regularly clean and check water sources so that they remain functional throughout winter weather.
3. Adjust Your Feeding Routine for Winter
Hay is a great source of warmth in colder weather because the microbial fermentation process in the gut (which occurs during hay consumption), generates body heat. Consider increasing forage intake to help your horse stay warm, especially in a cold snap or storm. If your horse loses body condition easily, you may look into adding higher-calorie feeds, like beet pulp or fat supplements, to their diet. Be sure to consult your veterinarian or equine nutritionist if making significant diet changes. And always make diet changes slowly, over a period of 10 to 14 days.
4. Blanket Strategically Based on Temperature
Not all horses need blankets in winter, as many can grow a thick, insulating winter coat. However, senior horses, clipped horses, or those with difficulty maintaining weight may benefit from blanketing. Make sure to choose blankets that fit well and are waterproof. Remove blankets regularly to check your horse’s body condition and to avoid rubbing or sores.
5. Provide Safe and Accessible Shelter
Horses should have access to shelter where they can escape wind, rain, and snow. Run-in sheds are ideal for pastured horses, offering protection while allowing them to move freely. Check shelters for structural integrity and safety, making sure they are free from loose boards or nails and that the ground isn’t slippery.
6. Stock Up on Supplies
Winter storms can disrupt supply chains and make trips to the feed store challenging. Stock up on feed, bedding, medications, and first-aid essentials in advance. Plan to have extra hay on hand, as horses often eat more during cold weather. Store supplies in a dry, rodent-proof area to keep them safe from the elements and pests.
7. Create Safe, Non-Slip Areas
Ice and snow can lead to hazardous conditions around your barn and pastures. Clear snow and spread non-toxic sand or salt to create safe, non-slip paths where horses are commonly walked. Ice-melt products designed specifically for animal areas are best, as they are less likely to irritate hooves. If your horses go out on pasture and come back into stalls later, use a hoof pick to remove clumps of snow and ice from their shoes. Horses walking on “high heels” made of ice for long periods of time place unwanted strain on different parts of the joints.
8. Maintain Hoof Health
Some horse owners cut back on hoof care during the winter because hooves tend to grow more slowly, but this is not ideal. Hoof health can suffer during the winter due to increased exposure to mud, ice, and snow. Pick out hooves daily to check for signs of thrush, which can develop in damp conditions. Some owners choose to pull shoes for winter to reduce the risk of slipping on ice, but consult your farrier to determine what’s best for your horse.
9. Check Fencing and Gates Regularly
Snow and ice can weigh down or damage fencing, and strong winds can weaken gates. Regularly inspect your fencing and make repairs as needed to prevent escape or injury. Clear any snow that may obstruct gate latches to ensure you have easy access and can securely close them.
10. Adjust Exercise and Turnout as Needed
Winter weather can make it hard to keep up with exercise, especially depending on the facilities you have available, but horses benefit from continued movement. Try to maintain turnout whenever possible, as confinement can increase stress and stiffness.
On icy days, hand-walking or light lunging in an indoor arena can help keep your horse active. Use the Equiband Pro System during these light workouts to keep your horse’s mind-body connection strong all year long! Be mindful not to over-exercise in extreme cold, and always warm down your horse thoroughly before returning them to the cold.
Get more tips about keeping your horse conditioned all winter here!
In Summary
With some careful planning and a few adjustments, winterizing your horsekeeping can make the cold months safer and more comfortable for both you and your horses. By prepping your barn (and yourself!) with the tips above, you’ll be all set to manage winter’s challenges and keep your horses healthy all season long!
