​Essential horse care for the dark and cold months

As we head into the colder, darker months, it's essential to adjust your horse care routine to keep both horse and rider happy, healthy, and dry. Autumn and winter bring unique challenges, but with the right approach to grooming, diet, and protection against the elements, you can ensure your horse remainscomfortable throughout the season.

1. Grooming

As your horse’s winter coat thickens, grooming becomes even more crucial. Regular brushing helps stimulate circulation and remove dirt and debris that can lead to skin issues. With the rise in mud, especially in turnout areas, be extra attentive to legs and hooves. Mud fever, a painful skin condition, can become more prevalent during the wet, cold months.

Tip: Invest in quality mud fever barrier cream and boots to protect your horse’s legs from persistent dampness and mud.

3. Horse health

Winter months often mean more time spent in the stable, which can affect your horse’s respiratory health. Make sure the stable is well-ventilated and clean to avoid the buildup of dust and ammonia. Regular checkups and keeping vaccinations up to date are also vital, as is consulting your vet if your horse appears sluggish or unwell. With firework season well underway, many horses can also become anxious too.

Tip: Stock up on calming products designed to ease anxiety in both horses and dogs, ensuring a stress-free environment during noisy nights.

4. Keeping dry

The colder months mean dealing with rain, snow, and freezing temperatures, so it's important to have the right gear for both you and your horse. Waterproof turnout rugs, stable rugs, and reliable outdoor wear for the rider are must-haves. Protect your horse from the harsh elements with rugs that wick away moisture and keep their skin dry.

Tip: Hi-vis products are especially important during the darker months. Whether you're riding on roads or just heading out to the fields, reflective gear, like the fantastic range from Reincoat, ensures you and your horse are seenwhile keeping warm and dry.

5. Riding in autumn/winter

As riding conditions get worse and dusk comes quicker, ensuring that both horse and rider are visible is more important than ever. Hi-vis vests can make all the difference in keeping you safe when riding in low-light conditions.

Tip: Our top sellers for winter include a variety of hi-vis options designed to keep you safe and stylish, whether you're hacking out or working in the yard.

With the right care and preparation, you and your horse can enjoy the winter months without the added stress of cold, mud, and dark nights.

From grooming essentials and diet adjustments to hi-vis gear and calming products, Equine Essentials Direct has everything you need to keep both horse and rider in top condition this season.