Guest Post | Winter Fun with Your Horse

Author’s note: This article is brought to you thanks to Schneider’s Saddlery (sstack.com). Offering quality equestrian products since 1948, Schneiders horse and tack supply has helped riders the world over embrace their passion.

Winter Fun with Your Horse

If you happen to live where the winter temperatures run into single digits or lower, you might be wondering just what you can do with your horse besides hibernating with it until spring.

Before you throw a blanket over yourself, you might want to reach for your saddle instead. Sure the weather may stymie your schooling plans a bit but that doesn't mean you can’t ride or find other ways to enjoy spending time with your horse.

Slow and Easy

Horses deal with the cold much better than they do heat and these cooler days are likely to get their blood pumping and boost their energy levels. This additional energy means you’ll need to be more watchful of your horse’s behavior. Lunging first could help work off some of the extra energy and get them ready to focus on a successful ride.

Allow for extra time to warm up and cool down. It takes extra time for the body to acclimate and for muscles to loosen when the temperatures are low. Even though they might have additional energy, you still need to give them time to stretch. Work your way more slowly into heavier work and avoid long hard sessions.

That thick winter coat takes much longer to dry and turning them out while still wet is asking for a sick horse. Invest in a cooler, a sheet that wicks away moisture and helps keep the horse warm while he dries, and hand walk him until the sweat is gone.

If you plan to ride regularly in the cold weather, you may want to clip your horses coat so they don’t get as sweaty during your rides. But be mindful that if you clip your horse they will need extra protection from the cold - a heavier blanket and, if you clip their neck, a neck cover or hood.

Ride In or Out?

Riding out in the snow can be a blast, so don’t be afraid to try it. Remember to go slowly and be aware that the snow may be covering hazards. Stick to areas you know are clear of debris and other hazards. Otherwise, relax and enjoy the scenery.

If your horse is unsure about the whole situation then you’ll need to give them enough time to take it all in. The key here is to know your horse, let them investigate things that look different when they’re covered in snow, and make it a win-win situation.

Riding in an indoor arena will give you a clear trail, but it also comes with its own challenges. Wind, snow and ice cause more noise and distractions against the roof, sides, and doors. You may want to spend time hand walking your horse before riding in order to familiarize them with the new sounds.

How Not to Slip

Having a 1200 pound animal sliding around on the ice and scrambling for balance is unnerving at best. The best option is to avoid the ice altogether, but if you know you may be in a slippery situation then you will want to talk to your farrier about different shoeing options to help prevent your horse from slipping.

If your horse is shod when it goes out in the snow then it may get snow packed into its hooves, which could cause them to slip when they step onto a hard surface such as the barn floor. Using snow pads between the hoof and the shoe can help prevent that, but you’ll still want to check their feet regularly to keep an eye out for buildup.

How Cold Is Too Cold?

So, how cold is too cold to ride? The general rule of thumb is to avoid riding if the temperature is 10 degrees Fahrenheit or lower as the decreased oxygen levels makes it more difficult to breathe.

But just because you can’t ride doesn't mean there’s nothing to do, however. These cold days give you the chance to just spend time with your horse. Spend some extra time grooming or do some groundwork.

Rules First And Last: Have Fun!

You've probably noticed a common theme here. Go slow; take your time. That advice will go far in helping you relax and enjoy your time with your horse in the cold and snow of winter.

Warm mashes, lots of hugs, the heat of your horse’s breath in your hair, and the joy of energizing days help make the seemingly long torture of winter turn into some of the best days of the year.