As the temperature drops and the days get shorter, it’s easy to feel less motivated to ride. But fear not! We’ve got some tips to help you stay inspired and keep your horse happy this winter.
Set Clear Goals
First things first, set some clear goals. Whether you want to improve your jumping skills or simply maintain your horse’s fitness, having specific goals can keep you focused and motivated. Write them down, create a plan, and celebrate your progress along the way.
Plan Your Days
Winter days can be unpredictable, so planning is crucial. Create a schedule that includes riding, training, and some downtime for you and your horse. Having a routine helps you stay on track and ensures you make the most of the limited daylight hours.
Invest in Quality Gear This Winter
Don’t underestimate the motivational power of good gear! Investing in quality, weather-appropriate clothing can make winter chores more bearable and riding much more enjoyable without losing feeling in our extremities.
Think waterproof jackets, warm layers, gloves, waterproofs and mud proof insulated boots.
For many of us, there are less opportunities to ride. So good yard work gear and no-sweat waterproofs are your friend!
For your horse, consider how many rugs they need for winter, indoor, outdoor and various weights as the temperature changes.
Mix It Up
Variety is the spice of life, and it’s no different for your horse. Try different activities like pole work and lunging, or even a fun ride to break up the hacking. Mixing up your routine keeps things interesting for both you and your horse and can help maintain their enthusiasm and fitness.
Join a Community
Winter can feel isolating, so connect with other horse owners for support and motivation. Online forums, social media groups, and local equestrian clubs are great places to share experiences, tips, and encouragement. You’ll find that you’re not alone in facing the winter blues.
Plan your next season
Check out any winter showing opportunities, indoor showjumping, dressage or working equitation series. Check out training rally’s or investigate trying a new activity. Start a calendar of events to plan your winter, spring and summer season. Noting which events are happening, when, where and what the closing dates for entries are.
Use the dark nights this winter to complete some “indoor” jobs
Use the days you can’t ride, to take apart all your tack, give it a good clean and inspect for any repairs needed. De-cobweb your stable, sweep out your feed shed and refresh your first aid kit. Start a list of jobs you can tick off ready for the new year which will set you ahead when the lighter nights arrive, and you want to be outdoors enjoying yourself.
Stay on Top of Health
Winter brings its own set of challenges, so keep a close eye on your horse’s health. Ensure they’re getting enough forage to maintain their body heat, regularly check their water supply to prevent freezing, use the rubber ball trick to help prevent water freezing over. Monitor hooves for any signs of issues, keep an eye out for mud fever beneath wet feathers and for laminitis prone horses, be vigilant for winter lami.
Try to prevent problems before they arise. If in doubt, get it checked out early.
Set up an annual planner for worming, teeth checks and vets appointments, so that you can stay on top of all the routine appointments and health checks.
Keep the Fun Alive Through Winter
Remember, owning horses in winter is tough but it can be enjoyable with the right mindset and the right clothing. Embrace the beauty of a frosty morning hack, use winter as a time to strengthen your bond with your horse through groundwork, grooming, and simply spending time together.
With these tips you and your horse can stay happy, healthy, and active this winter. Keep warm, stay motivated, and enjoy this season to the fullest!
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