Winter is a tough time for equestrians: most of us don’t look forward to this time of year… but it comes every year againnnnn ! 

It’s dark, cold, the indoor is full and outdoors are wet and muddy or completely frozen.
During winter the horses are more vulnerable and the risk of injury is higher.
Here are tips to help you get through winter whilst keeping your horse happy, healthy and sound. The appropriate warm-up, the right care as well as what you feed all have an impact on your horse in winter.
You will also find tips for keeping your horse motivated throughout the winter season.

 

Let’s start with the warm-up, why is it so important? 

So what can we do ?  

1. Level your surfaces: If you don’t want the ground to become hard and uneven during the really cold periods, it’s better to level it before the frosts hit. The ground will freeze evenly and it’s much safer for the horse legs.
2. Take enough time for walking: In winter, horses need time to warm up, especially if they have been standing in the box for a long time. Putting the horse in the walker, on a treadmill or simply walking him in hand before riding or turning out will help prevent the risk of injury.
3. Warm yourself up before riding: Your riding seat, as well as your overall suppleness and flexibility, will benefit greatly if you warm up before riding. You will be better able to follow the movements of your horse and ride more fluidly. 
4. Walking with your horse in hand for 10 to 15 minutes is a great option to get both of you ready for the training session! But please wear head protection when doing this, as a fresh horse may rear up, or want to play with you.