Just like that, autumn is here! Now’s the perfect time to start preparing for winter. Here are our top 20 tips to help you and your horse stay comfortable and safe through the coming colder months:
- Stock Up Early
If possible, bulk buy good quality bedding and hay/haylage at the start of the season. This will keep you prepared in case winter weather disrupts supply chains. If storage is limited, consider sharing supplies with a friend. - Stay Visible
When hacking on the roads, make sure both you and your horse have plenty of Hi-Viz gear, especially on overcast autumn days. Yellow is especially effective in low-light conditions and is essential for visibility all year round. - Insulate Water Pipes
Wrap exposed water pipes to protect against freezing. If your water supply is prone to freezing, fill large water containers in the evenings so you’ll have fresh water on hand each morning, even when temperatures drop. - Keep Tails Clean
Autumn rain and mud can make tails a mess. Try braiding the bottom of the tail and using a mane and tail spray to repel mud and dirt. Folding the tail up to the dock can also help in very muddy paddocks. - Invest in Quality Turnout Rugs
Early preparation is key, especially if your horse is clipped. Have at least two quality, breathable turnout rugs—one lighter weight and one heavier for colder days—to ensure warmth without multiple rugs that can shift or rub. - Dress for Yard Work
Get yourself a pair of warm, waterproof breeches for outdoor tasks. Look for fleece-lined and water-resistant options to keep you comfortable during autumn rain and cooler temperatures. - Dry Your Horse Quickly
Hang a heat lamp in the stable or wash area for those damp days when your horse just won’t dry. This is an affordable and time-saving alternative to a solarium, helping to prevent chills after exercise or grooming. - Prepare Haynets for the Week
Fill your haynets for the entire week every weekend. This saves time on busy mornings and ensures you’re one step ahead for the week. - Select the Right Bedding
Choose a high-quality bedding that supports respiratory health and hoof care, like Bedmax. With your horse spending more time indoors, proper bedding is crucial for their overall health and comfort. - Waterproof Over-Trousers
Invest in waterproof over-trousers to protect yourself from rain and wind on cooler days. These will make yard work much more bearable when you’re out in the elements. - Get a Drying Rug
A drying rug is ideal for autumn. It speeds up the drying process after exercise and on damp days, keeping your horse dry and comfortable even in chilly, wet conditions. - Bring Warm Drinks to the Yard
Equip your yard with a kettle and a supply of tea and coffee. A warm drink is essential for chilly autumn mornings and will be useful throughout winter. - Stock Up on Grit or Salt
Get your grit or salt now, so you’ll be ready for icy patches on colder days. Early stocking ensures you have enough for safe footing around the yard. - Clip for Comfort
Clip your horse according to its workload. This makes grooming easier and helps prevent sweating, which can lead to chills as the weather gets cooler. - Keep Your Tack Dry
Use a small heater in the tack room with a timer switch to prevent dampness and mold. This helps keep tack in top condition and drys off equipment after rainy rides. - Dry Legs to Avoid Mud Fever
Towel-dry your horse’s legs after turnout to reduce the risk of mud fever. Applying Pig Oil and Sulfur to dry legs can help repel mud, but remember to do a test patch first. - Minimize Rug Changes
If possible, keep the same rugs on in the stable and outside, changing only when necessary. This saves time and keeps your horse comfortable, reducing the need for drying. - Prevent Snowballing Hooves
When snow arrives, lubricate hooves with baby oil or vegetable oil to prevent snow from balling up in the hooves. - Increase Water Intake
Feeding soaked fiber helps keep horses hydrated as temperatures drop. Using warm water in colder months encourages drinking, while fiber digestion generates extra warmth. - Take a Break
If the weather’s unpleasant, don’t be afraid to skip a ride. Both you and your horse may appreciate a rest on those particularly blustery days. And remember—spring will come soon enough!
With these tips, you’ll be well-prepared for whatever winter throws your way. Let’s get ready for a great season ahead!
