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Winter Horseback Riding Tips

Jan 30, 2014

There might be times when you wish you could ride your horses more during the winter months, even in the coldest of weather. When conditions are not slippery, riding can be excellent exercise for rider and horse.

What to Remember

If you are riding in cold weather, you must take special care when cooling out horses, or you will be guilty of inflicting another form of winter stress.
Other stresses are decreased water intake, increased energy needs (increased calorie requirements) and seeking comfort (standing out of drafts or standing in the sun).
In addition, your horse's work/training schedule might become somewhat altered or stopped in the winter months. Therefore, your horse could get somewhat out-of-shape and not be ready for a full riding session. Instead consider a long walk or gentle jog that can do the equine and rider plenty of good. If your horse is out of condition do not force a lot of exercise during bitter cold temperature.
Equids are very capable of handling the cold temperatures and weather conditions that make most humans huddle inside.
How to Cool Out Your Horse

If a horse has exerted himself to the point where he is wet with sweat beneath the saddle, use special care to prevent chilling. Sudden changes in body temperature, such as a cold wind blowing on a sweaty back, can have harmful results.
 
Source: TheHorse