It's easier to prepare for winter BEFORE it looks like THIS outside... Photo by Lorraine Peachey.
It’s a little hard to believe that it is the middle of December, considering the unseasonably warm weather that has been hanging around recently. But I’ll certainly take it over the cold temperatures, ice and snow that I know will be on their way soon enough.
While I’m still riding and getting my barn work done while wearing light layers, my mind is already planning ahead. It is always better to be prepared for the cold weather before it arrives, rather than waiting for it to already get here.
Now is the time to take an inventory of all of the things that I’ll need; I’ve been checking my blankets, making sure to have a bag of non-slip granules for icy spots, and spare fence boards. I’ve also pulled the horses off of their large pasture, and have begun double checking my fences.
While these are just a few of the pre-winter activities that I undertake, there are many other items on my check list. Head over to The Horse to brush up on some tips on Making Winter Manageable on the Farm, to help you plan for cold weather at your farm.
Then check out some of the other headlines from This Week in Horse Health News, Presented by Absorbine.
What Horses Think of Winter Turnout?: Do you ever wonder if horses are bothered by living out during cold and blustery winter weather conditions? Research from the University of Connecticut suggests that no matter what the weather conditions are, that horses usually walk about the same distance each day. [Equus Magazine]
Why is My Horse’s Manure Runny?: Have you ever had dealt with a horse with runny manure? After which, you’ve tried to figure out what the cause of said runny manure is? Check out this Q&A with Clair Thunes, PhD which examines the topic. [The Horse]
Horse Hindgut Sensitivity to Changes in Hay: A recent French study has been conducted, which examines the sensitivity of the hindgut to even minor changes in hay. Even a change to a hay with similar composition can have an effect on the hindgut. [Horsetalk]
Exercise After Vaccinations … How Soon is Too Soon?: Do you have a general rule of thumb as to how long you wait to exercise your horse after they are vaccinated? And just what are the effects of certain vaccinations? Check out this Q&A with Melinda Freckleton, DVM for some insight into this topic. [Equus Magazine]
