You have probably noticed your equine partner is getting a little bit fuzzy. With October just around the corner and the cool rainy weather we have had, its time to winterize both horses and barn. North Texas is known for its unpredictable weather this time of year, its not to early to lay those winter supplies.
The key point to preparing for winter is to Plan Ahead! Ask and answer the following questions. What supplies do you need? Do you have Blankets? buckets? hay? shavings? Do your horses have adequate shelter? Winterized play area’s?
Lets break down each question. 1. What supplies do you need? Look around the tack room, do you have coolers, blankets (that are water proof), extra buckets for those rainy days, mud boots for yourself, first aid kit, towels (typically we get wetter than our equines). If you are short on supplies start filling in the gaps now, so when the surprise freeze comes, you are prepared.
2. Blankets – many people provide their equines with a blanket for those really cold days, its time to pull it out of the tote and make sure it is clean, and still fits properly. Measure from the point of shoulder to the point of hip (for size), when on the blanket should fit securely with out rubbing the withers, or shoulders. If you body clip or keep your horse under lights it will be important to have a blanket for those cold days, as your horse will not grow as much hair. If your horse lives outdoors all year and has a big fluffy coat, you probably don’t need to blanket.
3. Hay – The growing season is over and while the rains brought relief and some grass will grow, it will not be long before the pastures are brown. Make sure you have plenty of hay stored in a dry place for the winter, as the winter draws on hay will become more expensive and harder to find.
4. Shavings – If you have a lean to shed or barn shavings will help keep your horse dry and warm this winter, purchasing ahead of the cold will give you a chance to acclimate your horse to the new bedding before the cold and again prevent you from being out in the cold yourself.
5. Shelter – Its important to make sure your equine partner has adequate shelter from storms and bad weather, a lean to that faces (or opens to the south) will protect from the common North wind. It will also keep your horses dry during rain, ice, or snow. If you have a barn make sure your horses have access to their stalls or ability to get under cover if you don’t get home in time to bring them in.
6. As the weather turns cold, we often face muddy, slick conditions in pastures and outdoor riding area’s. If your horses are stalled, make sure that fences and other hazardous are well kept to keep your horses safe from wire cuts, as they play and frolic in the cold. Check your riding area’s for slick spots to avoid.
Fence and Plumbing maintenance:
Check your barn or watering area’s, make sure that all exposed pipes are wrapped or covered to prevent freezing and breaking. Check fences often for downed wires due to wind, ice, or tree limbs. Check that all entrances to the barn and/or shed are clear of debris and drain properly.
As you prepare for winter, remember its never to early to prepare!
If you would like more information about winterizing your barn email lydiabagley@aggienetwork.com or consult your instructor/trainer for tips.
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