As the days get longer and the temperatures climb, the promise of Spring is in the air. For any horse owner, the arrival of warmer weather is an exciting time as it marks the beginning of being able to ride offsite more and increased turnout for your horse. But before you and your horse can enjoy the trails and go off on excursions to the beach, you must ensure your horse is properly prepared for the season ahead. From getting rid of their winter coat to checking their diet is right for the spring grass with your vet, this guide will take you through the basics of getting your horse ready for the season ahead.
Give Your Horse A Bath
The first step in preparing your horse for Spring is to give them a good bath. This will help get rid of any dirt and debris they may have collected during the winter months, as well as help remove their heavy winter coat. When bathing your horse, be sure to use a gentle shampoo and conditioner specifically formulated for horses to ensure their skin and coat remain healthy. Also, be sure to use warm water and don’t forget to rinse them thoroughly.
Clipping Off The Winter Coat
As the weather gets warmer, you may have started to notice your horse has begun to shed their winter coat. When this begins, you might be thinking about clipping off their winter coat to help; however, this can damage your horse’s summer coat and is something you want to avoid. Instead, you can help them shed naturally by using metal shedding tools after you’ve bathed them. This will help remove all the hairs that are currently loose and make them much less itchy. Before you begin, keep in mind that horse hair is fine and can cause irritation to your eyes, nose, and throat, so be prepared with a mask to ensure you don’t breathe in the hairs while you help them shed.
As you prepare for springtime rides with your horse, selecting the right saddle pad is essential for both comfort and performance. A saddle pad for trail riding ensures that your horse experiences optimal cushioning and support during extended journeys. Look for features such as breathability to keep your horse cool, moisture-wicking properties for those warmer days, and a durable construction. Investing in a high-quality saddle pad not only enhances your horse’s well-being but also contributes to an enjoyable and smooth riding experience.
Invest In Fly Masks And Rugs
Fly masks and rugs are great for keeping pesky flies away from your horse’s face, eyes, and body when they’re out in the field. Additionally, many fly masks come with UV protection, which is ideal for protecting their eyes, especially if your horse has any eye conditions that are triggered by higher UV levels. When shopping for fly masks and rugs, be sure to look for ones that fit your horse properly and are made from breathable material. If you’re not sure about the fit your horse will need, you can get help by checking out this horse accessories size guide.
Check Their Diet With Your Vet
As the temperatures warm up, your horse’s diet may need to be adjusted to account for the changing season. Spring grasses are higher in sugar and starches, which can be a problem for your horse as their digestive system won’t be accustomed to it. To make sure your horse is getting the right nutrition, you can speak with your vet and have them check your horse’s diet. Your vet may recommend changing your horse’s feed to one that is lower in sugar, or they may suggest adding supplements to their diet to help with any behaviour changes that can also occur during Spring. By checking your horse’s diet before Spring hits, you can ensure that they stay as healthy as possible and reduce the risk of certain conditions like laminitis.