HORSE SENSE: Working in a winter wonderland 23 December 2015 Premium

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23 December 2015

Leanne O'Sullivan on 23 Dec 2015

HORSE SENSE: Working in a winter wonderland

Working with horses is not without its challenges but working with horses in wet, windy and freezing conditions takes it to a whole new level. Here is our advice

Leanne O'Sullivan

23 December 2015

A horse's winter coat is naturally greasy, which helps it repel snow, ice, and sleet

Horses are very susceptible to ice compacting within their hooves during the winter. The compacted ice or snow makes it difficult for the horse to walk.

Rain means mud and mud can lead to mud rash or mud fever

Having the right amount of hair on a horse's legs can help protect the horse from mud rash

Assess if your property is at risk from flooding (e.g. where could a flood enter your house, bedrooms on ground floors or in basements, etc.). (photo: healyracing.ie)

DON'T make unnecessary journeys DON'T take risks on treacherous roads

Picture: David Dew

SNOW

To horses snow may be the best thing invented since mud but to the handlers and carers who have to check water drinkers five times a day and who fret constantly that their horses might be cold, it can be a bit of a nightmare.

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