Winter Horse Care, Published in The Prescott

http://www.prescottdog.com/publications/2012-01-jan-feb.pdf

Winter is among us – we have cozied up next to the fire with our hot cocoa and the bears have snuggled in for a long winter’s nap. But what about our horses? These creatures are quite resilient and are accustomed to being outdoors in the elements. However, since we have options there are some things that we, as horse owners, can do to help our four legged partners have a safe winter.

Perhaps the easiest cold weather thing to think of is providing shelter. A shelter with sides and a roof is ideal, allowing the horse to get almost completely out of the elements. However, what is most important is providing your pet with a wind break. Blanketing your horse is an additional option. If you choose to put a blanket on your horse remember to remove it as the day warms. If your horse sweats under the blanket, becoming damp, they will be unable to keep warm, regardless of the extra layer.

The chill in the air often decreases the horses desire to drink water. Dehydration can lead to numerous problems, including potential fecal impaction and colic, among others. Keeping a salt block in with your equine or adding a trace salt supplement directly into their feed are some ways to encourage them to drink more water. The key here is to make sure that your horse has easy access to their trough and that it is not iced over; plan to make ice breaking part of your morning and evening chore list.

Additionally, when it is truly cold out our horses will benefit from a few extra calories. They will burn these extra calories trying to keep their body temperature warm. However, during extended warm periods remember to back off the extra feed. It is just as harmful to add too much extra weight to your horse. Often the extra calories your horse may need to stay warm will balance with the calories they may be saving through decreased exercise.

Exercise, did someone say exercise? We should not wait until after the New Year to start back up our equine’s exercise regime. Physical activity is a very important part of horse husbandry. Do not underestimate the need to keep your horse moving during the colder months. It is tempting for owners to stay indoors and not attend as many equine events during the winter, thus lessening exercise opportunity. Even though it is frigid out, our horses exercise should still be frequent.

Lastly, but no less important, is proper hoof care. The more frequent moist wet conditions that our horse’s hooves are exposed to creates the prime conditions for problems such as thrush and abscesses. It is recommended that your horse’s feet be looked at and even cleaned on a daily basis.

Following these few tips can set you and your horse up for a successful winter and easy transition into the spring. If you have any additional questions or concerns, please free to contact the veterinarians at Prescott Animal Hospital Equine Center at 928-776-7669 or via email pahequine@cableone.net.