Wet Winter Tips
Rainy season is here! During the wet winter months it can be harder to spend time with your horses outside. Shorter and colder days can lead to more challenges. Below are a few wet and cool weather tips!
Elevate footing during rainy/muddy season in both turnouts and working areas. Horses standing, walking or running in muddy footing can be susceptible to tendon and ligament injuries. Clean, dry and check your horse's lower limbs daily and if you notice localized swelling or irritation contact your veterinarian.
Extend your warm-ups and cool downs, especially if turnout time becomes limited due to weather. Taking the time to warm up and cool down during exercise will decrease the risk of tying up (exercise rhabdomyolysis, a condition that causes muscle damage).
Hydrate! Warm water up a little if needed to encourage drinking; consider the use of electrolytes to encourage water intake
Wash and dry exercise boots regularly to reduce the risk of bacterial and fungal infection
Be sure horses are cool and dry before blanketing them again. Below is a blanketing guide for clipped and unclipped horses. You may need to change your blanketing choice if you notice visible shivering or if you notice your horse losing weight.
Blanketing Guide
Clipped:
50F+: No blanket, turnout sheet ok
40-50F: Sheet- lightweight
30-40F: Midweight-heavyweight
20-30F: Heavyweight
10-20F: Heavyweight + a sheet or liner
10F-: heavyweight + sheet or liner and neck cover
Unclipped:
50F+: No blanket
40-50F: No blanket, turnout sheet ok
30-40F: Lightweight
20-30F: Midweight
10-20F: Heavyweight
10F-: heavyweight + sheet or liner
Special Considerations:
Underweight or geriatric horses should err on the side of blanketing heavier, especially those with dental issues or chronic disease.
Precipitation and heavy rainfall would warrant a blanket shift to keep horses dry and warm. ALWAYS use a waterproof blanket during wet weather.