ESSENTIAL WINTER CARE : KEEPING YOUR HORSES HEALTHY AND THRIVING
Sponsored by the American Quarter Horse Association .
As winter approaches , it is important to prepare your ranch horses for the colder months ahead . Horses are not just partners in work or leisure ; they are trusted members of our lives , deserving the best care to stay healthy and comfortable .
The best practice is to visually inspect your horses daily , looking for any scrapes , swellings , or other injuries , and ensure that your horse is bright , alert and engaged . This is also a good time of year for an annual physical exam by your veterinarian . During this visit , your vet can perform various important procedures , including testing for equine infectious anemia ( Coggins test ), examining and floating your horse ’ s teeth , and administering core vaccines . Regular dental care ensures that your horse can eat comfortably and maintain proper nutrition , which is particularly important during the colder months when their caloric needs increase .
High-quality forage combined with grain , as recommended by an equine nutritionist , helps sustain warmth and maintain energy levels . Monitoring feed and water consumption is vital , as changes can indicate underlying health issues . Manure output and consistency also provide clues to your horse ’ s digestive health . Fresh water is just as important in winter as in summer , so ensure your horse has access to non-frozen water , ideally above 45 degrees Fahrenheit , to keep them hydrated and aid digestion . For horses in sandy or arid regions , administering a sand-clearing product monthly can prevent the dangerous accumulation of sand in the intestinal tract , which can lead to colic .
For parasite control , the current recommendations suggest deworming with ivermectin two to four times a year or following a rotational program three to four times a year . Your veterinarian can help you tailor a deworming schedule to suit your horse ’ s needs .
A long , natural winter hair coat is best for horses as it provides essential insulation , trapping warm air close to the body . Access to shelter from wind , snow , and rain is crucial , as even the thickest coat cannot fully protect against the elements . A dry , windprotected area allows your horse to enjoy pasture time while staying warm and comfortable .
For barefoot horses that do not wear their hooves down in their natural setting , a trim every six to eight weeks – or shoe resetting – ensures that their hooves remain in good condition . This is especially important during winter when icy and uneven terrain can pose challenges . Consider using winter studs for traction and snowball pads to prevent snow from accumulating in the hooves .
Saddle horses in the winter should be given extra care to warm up properly before they go to work . After a ride , ensure that any sweaty areas are fully dried to prevent the horse from becoming chilled . Frigid air also wreaks havoc on leather , so this is the time to maintain your tack and saddle to prevent leather from cracking and drying out .
By sticking to these tips , you ’ ll make sure your horse stays healthy , comfy , and ready to take on the winter chill . With the right care , your trusty steed won ’ t just make it through the cold season – he ’ ll come out stronger on the other side .
Photo provided by AQHA .
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