Cowgirl - Barn

Maybe you’ve thought about how to get your horse ready for the cold winter months, but don’t forget about your barn. Your horse will not be prepared for the cold if his shelter isn’t setup correctly. You’ll need to take some extra time making a checklist to ensure your horse’s home is all set before the first freeze and snowfall. These tips should help you!

  • Clean out your hay storage area. Sweep up old hay and dust to make space for new.
  • Count your hay and ensure you’ll have enough for the entire winter season. There’s nothing worst than paying premium winter hay prices or not being able to find hay for sale at all.
  • Pull out the water heaters and heated buckets. Double check they are working and not a fire hazard. If you don’t have electricity, come up with a plan to prevent frozen buckets.
  • Check over any electrical devices like heaters. Fires are common in the winter.
  • Proper ventilation is essential in the winter months. You might be tempted to seal up the barn, but your horse’s respiratory system will be at risk. Some air flow is necessary.
  • Fix broken fences ahead of time. You don’t want to spend unnecessary time out in the freezing cold, so repair any broken boards before temperatures drop.
  • Pastured horses will need some sort of shelter from the elements. A run in shelter is necessary for those out 24/7. It doesn’t have to be fancy, but it should be safe.
  • Avoid boredom in stalled horses by adding toys to their stall and keeping them close to others.
  • Get ready for ice by having kitty litter or sand on hand.

Before you know it winter will be here. Get your barn ready ahead of time to keep your horse happy and healthy.