Keeping Horses Content This Winter
The thermometer is starting to plummet and the snow is forecasted for the end of the week so it’s time to take the last steps of preparing for a winter turnout. Horses are made to withstand cold weather and do quite well in 20F weather. It has been shown that horses are healthiest when they are outside for at least part of the day in comparison to being kept in the padlock all winter long.
There are a few things that do change during the winter season to make allowances for the colder weather.
Make sure that water is always available. When the temperatures dip down ice can form on the water troughs. If this is an ongoing problem where you live then an investment in a water heater or an automatic pasture waterer will do the trick. It’s always a good idea to keep an eye on how much they drink, since although they require water, their thirst drops off in the winter.
A shelter is important on cold windy days. A roof with 3 sides is the best because it covers every angle the wind can come in except the front. It looks like an oversized bus shelter. It’s essential to remember that horses will require more food during the winter months. This is because it requires more energy to stay warm. Increase the amount of hay. Since it takes longer to break down, hay endures longer which in turn provides more long term heat.
Supplements are also a high priority in the cold season. A very effective supplement is TAHITIAN NONI® Equine Essentials. It supports the equine immune system with superior antioxidant activity as well as promotes proper feed digestion and nutrient absorption. The cold winter air tends to dry out hair and skin but the TAHITIAN NONI® Equine Essentials combats this. If you have a horse with joint problems there is a sister product called TAHITIAN NONI® Equine Essentials FlexTM that has had great results.
Here is a tip for beautiful sunny days when the light is reflecting that it is almost blinding. Use the fly masks. It cuts the glare. They are also handy on really windy days especially if your horse has ever had problems with his eyes.
You have to admit there is something beautiful about horses running in the snow. As indicated at the bottom of all our web pages, these statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and these products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Please visit our website for details.