Merry Christmas from Our Stable to Yours
Keeping Horses Cozy and Hydrated in the Chill
As the holiday season settles in, so do the freezing temperatures. From all of us at Hillbrook Sport Horses, we wish you and your equine companions a Merry Christmas and a cozy winter ahead! This early arrival of cold weather has us bundling up—and it’s a reminder that our horses need extra care, too. How are you keeping your horses hydrated and warm?
Let’s explore a few key tips to ensure your horses stay healthy and comfortable during this frosty season.
Cold Weather Adaptations
Did you know horses have built-in survival mechanisms to handle chilly temperatures?
Vasoconstriction: Horses reduce blood flow to their skin and extremities to conserve heat.
Piloerection: Their coats fluff up, trapping warm air close to the body.
Shivering: Those muscle contractions? They’re nature’s way of creating warmth!
Your horse might also huddle with buddies, seek shelter, or naturally cut back on activity to conserve energy. Still, while these adaptations are impressive, they often need a little extra help from us when the thermometer dips.
The Importance of Hydration in Winter
Here’s a surprising fact: dehydration is one of the leading causes of colic during winter. Horses are notorious for drinking less when it’s cold, and frozen water buckets can make staying hydrated even harder.
The average horse needs 10 to 12 gallons of water per day—more for larger breeds!
Dehydration can cause a horse to lose up to 4% of their body weight in just 24 hours.
To encourage hydration, offer lukewarm water (between 45°F and 65°F). Warm water is more appealing to horses and can help prevent intestinal blockages. Adding electrolytes to their diet can also stimulate thirst.
Additional Cold Weather Care Tips
Here are some practical ways to keep your horses healthy and comfortable as the temperatures drop:
Provide Plenty of Forage: Digesting forage generates heat, keeping your horse warm from the inside out. High-quality hay is essential!
Offer Proper Shelter: Make sure your horses have a dry, windproof space with good ventilation.
Monitor Blanketing: Consider blanketing when temps dip below 14°F (-10°C), especially if it’s wet or windy.
Maintain Hoof Care: Check hooves regularly to ensure there’s no accumulation of snow, ice, or debris that could cause discomfort or slipping.
Adjust Exercise Routines: Warm up slowly to protect muscles and joints, and consider using a quarter sheet for warmth during rides.
Wishing You a Warm and Joyful Holiday Season
At Hillbrook Sport Horses, we know the challenges winter can bring, but with the right care, our horses can thrive through the cold months. As you enjoy this festive time of year, don’t forget to check on your horse’s water buckets, add an extra layer of hay, and give them a little extra love (and maybe a peppermint or two).
From our stable to yours, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! May your holiday season be filled with warmth, joy, and happy horses.
