By: Aprylsnow
Horses in the wild have survived winters since the beginning of time. They roamed from place to place in search of food and water all winter long. This ranging allowed them to survive, but not all horses made it through the winter and some horse came out of winter in less than ideal condition. Our domesticated friends however do not live in the same conditions as their wild cousins. Most pet horses do not have a herd to protect them nor do they have an expansive territory to roam and forage for food, water and shelter from the elements. In order for us to keep our horses comfortable and healthy in winter requires additional care. If you have an older horse this care may be more extensive that with a young adult horse in order to maintain condition throughout the cold months. Preparation for winter needs to be considered in advance.
Does your horse have adequate shelter in the winter months? While horses are already well suited for winter naturally they still need shelter. Make sure there is no draft to blow through, but there is adequate ventilation. No leaky roof or floors that have poor drainage, which can make the floors wet. This is dangerous not only for the horse, but you too. Drafts and leaks from the roof can give the horse a chill and when the floors are wet they freeze becoming very slippery. If you live in an area with heavy snow fall be sure your roof is strong enough, otherwise you run the risk of a collapse. Strip strip stall or living area, since generally horses will spend more time inside in winter and clean fresh living quarters is vital for respiratory health. Outside check the fence for repairs and clear any overgrowth from around the fence. Your fencing must be is high enough to prevent escape should several inches of snow accumulate.
Providing more nutritional value to your horse's diet is important in keeping him well conditioned, but not fat. This is especially important for the aged equine. A common misconception is that horses must have a lot of grain in the winter to keep them warm. It is actually the fermentation of roughages in the digestive track, such as hay that provides warmth to your horse. Some horses may need a change in feed during winter months, particularly horses that are exercised regularly or seniors. ALWAYS make changes gradually. A result of not taking care to make changes slowly is a case of colic, which can be fatal. Check with your veterinarian or horse nutritionist on the best winter feeding regiment for each individual horse. Providing access to a clean, fresh, unfrozen water source is also very important to maintain digestive function. I have found that the time and little money spent on a heated water tub to be one of the best investments of time and money. No more worry about water freezing before the horse gets enough water and no more breaking ice from the buckets. Always follow the manufacturers installation and maintenance instructions. If this is not an option, horses need to have unfrozen fresh water at least twice a day. It is a myth that eating snow provides adequate water consumption. Some horses refuse or drink very little water if it is very cold outside. Warm water encourages drinking and does not shock the horse's system. Continue regular care of your horse, carefully observe the horse for effects of the cold and snow. Check hooves often for packed snow and ice, this can making walking difficult and may cause undue stress and injury to the legs.
If you are riding in winter consider studded shoes and anti-balling pads for better traction and to prevent snow build up in the hooves. Do not overexert the horse during cold weather. Over excessive or labored breathing can cause lung damage. If your horse gets over heated while exercising make it part of your riding to spend time properly cooling down the horse to prevent chills and illness.
It may seem like a lot of work to keep your horse healthy and safe in the winter, but it is well worth not having large vet bills and a happy bright eyed horse when spring comes. Some types of horses fare better than others in the winter months and may require less special attention than others.
