Posted: 11th February 2016 | Back to news feed
Horse owners will be very pleased to see the start of spring looming and the more pleasant weather and lighter days that it brings with it. The winter is always a challenging time for equestrian care and the endless mud, lack of grass and cold temperatures often mean that horses will be stabled for much longer periods of time.
Spring provides fresh grass growth and hopefully less rain, meaning that horses will start to enjoy relaxing in their fields again and feel revitalised by the new season. This change in routine means that extra care must be taken to ensure the transition between winter and spring care is smooth and problem-free in terms of health and temperament.
If you are turning your horse out in a field that he hasn’t been in for some time, take care that he does not become over excited. Exercising him beforehand is often a good idea to reduce some of his energy. If your horse is very strong in hand, putting him in a control head collar may help and always wear a hard hat when turning horses out.
Spring grass is usually rich and high in sugar so if you have a pony or horse that is prone to laminitis make sure you fence a smaller area off for him to restrict his grazing. Ponies - and some horses - can get excitable on spring grass so make sure you monitor them accordingly to ensure they do not overeat and show unwanted behaviour.
Ensure that your horse continues to receive a balanced diet when he is turned out. For those that are good-doers a low calorie feed balancer is an ideal way to ensure your horse gets all the nutrients he needs without gaining excess weight. Some horses get more lethargic when turned out for longer periods, so they may benefit from slow release energy products.
If you are planning to change your horses feed for a less conditioning option as they move into spring and summer, be sure to introduce the new feed gradually and mix it in with their current feed to start with. If reducing hay or haylage, it may be a good idea to put it in a smaller holed haynet or in a net within a net to prolong feeding time.
Although the spring should bring the start of more pleasant weather, it is still the British climate, which as we all know can be very unpredictable. Therefore, it is a good idea to have a light weight turnout rug for your horse to protect him from showers, whilst preventing him getting too warm. When the flies start to become a problem ensure your horse is suitably protected with a fly rug and mask.
With your horse being out more, spring is the ideal time to give your stables and yard a spring clean. To thoroughly clean your stable, remove any rubber matting and use a pressure washer together with a good disinfectant to wash down the floor and walls. Any matting can then be cleaned as well before laying it back down.
The start of spring marks a great time for horse owners and the drawing out of the days allows more riding. Enjoy the spring and look forward to a fun filled season ahead.
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