Feature Say goodbye to...
cold feet! with Equitector’s Climate Control Technology!
Any leg height and calf width Gaiters ladies’ and mens’, any calf width
Other features: • Hoof Proof toe protection • Rot proof soles and uppers • Stirrup foot balance system • Waterproof leather • Super comfortable • Long lasting quality
Providing a salt lick can encourage drinking, reducing the risk of dehydration Made in UK
anything has become apparent in the last number of years, it’s the fact that many of us are over-rugging our horses. The key thing to remember is that horses are built to live outdoors and are much more effective at warming themselves up than they are at cooling themselves down.
Older horses, and horses who have been clipped are likely to need some form of protection from rugs while all horses need shelter from the wind and rain (either in the form of a man- made shelter or plenty of natural hedges and/or trees). Aim to replace what you have taken off in the clip; if you’ve clipped out his neck, consider a neck cover; if you’ve just given him a trace clip, he’ll probably manage with a standard turnout.
Exercise
benefits. Being out of the stable helps him release any excess energy built up by more time indoors and is good mental stimulation too. Just remember to be safe: wear hi-vis clothing at all times; avoid road riding in the dark or poor weather conditions; and allow for a longer warm up before schooling.
Attitude
Prevents cold feet even at
minus 20c!
MAnUfActURERS of finE RidinG bootS
www.equitector.com telephone: 0208 090 4029
It’s not unusual for horses to become a bit ‘excitable’ or ‘full of themselves’ in the cooler months. Rather than assume they are just being naughty, consider that less turnout, clips and the weather all play their part in making for a more energetic, sensitive and spooky horse. Reducing energy in feed and lungeing before ridden work can go some way to managing tricky moments.
While rising before the sun or staying at the yard long after dark to ride is no easy task, keeping your horse in work throughout winter has its
Laminitis
Autumn is a real risk time for laminitis, just as much as spring. Rapid grass growth often occurs
around this time because the soil remains warm from summer and then is presented with lots of rainfall. The subsequent high sugar content in the grass leads to greater risk of laminitis. Monitor your horse’s weight and restrict grazing if necessary. Try using electric fencing to divide paddocks into smaller sections or creating a ‘track’ system to encourage more movement. Remember, all horses need a good balance of vitamins and minerals in their diet so be sure to provide them with a low calorie balancer alongside adequate forage to keep their digestive system healthy.
Turnout
Hydration
The winter months bring a risk of dehydration as water temperatures cool, leading some horses to avoid drinking.
Provide clean, fresh water at all times and encourage drinking by offering a salt lick or adding salt to feed. Warm up the water by adding hot water and try adding some flavourings such as apple juice or cider vinegar. Soaking feeds to a mash will also increase their water intake this winter.
Some horses may need extra calories during the winter
As discussed, providing winter turnout can help manage excitability through winter. However, if paddocks are not maintained throughout the year, you can end up with flooded, poached and unpleasant fields. Before the poor weather hits, repair any gates, fencing and water pipes or drinkers and consider laying hard coring in high traffic areas.
Water should be checked twice daily For advertising telephone 01380 734373 | OCTOBER 2018 23
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