Winter Horse Hoof Tips

Did you know that a horse’s hoof wall undergoes metabolic changes in the winter that cause it to grow more slowly?

It can be unnerving when black ice covers wet ground, snow drifts don’t allow a rider to see possible dangers, and asphalt or concrete becomes slippery, especially for horses that are shod.  Managing snow balls is another problem that faces horse owners in the winter.

In many parts of the country, the winter conditions are so extreme that riding is not a realistic consideration.  However, for those people who live in areas where the snowfall is light or moderate, here are some winter shoeing tips:

Often a horse owner chooses to allow their horse to go barefoot in the winter.  One advantage is that a barefoot horse does not ball up with snow in the harsh winter months.  Going barefoot also allows a horse’s foot to recover from the confines of being constantly restricted due to shoeing.  Be sure to check with your farrier before pulling your horse’s shoes.  Horses with thin soles can be more easily bruised, and overgrown feet do not have good traction, so be sure to keep up with trims even in the winter.  Be cautious about taking your horse out on all day rides when shoes have been newly removed, as the hoof walls can be damaged and long rides can cause road founder.  If you are going to ride in the winter, make the rides a regular occurrence so that your horse’s hooves can become conditioned.  Hoof boots can give added protection while your horse adjusts to being without shoes or when going out for a lengthy ride.  Be sure to try them in the pasture first so that you and your horse can get used to them.  Remember, they can be slick too.

Some horses cannot go without shoes; therefore, you might consider just shoeing the front feet.  Be sure to check that your horse is not interfering by hitting a hind foot to a front limb or foot, due to changes in movement.  Also keeping the horse on more even terrain for a few days or even a week will allow him or her to get used to being shod in the front only.  Be sure to check for snowballs that can accumulate in the hooves that are shod.

Many boarding facilities will not allow horses to wear hind shoes when turned out with other horses because of the possibility of injuries.  So keep this in mind if you are thinking of turning your horse out with others.

If you need to shoe all four feet in the winter months, speak to your farrier about traction devices that can help to keep your horse from slipping on those icy winter rides.

Riding in the snow can be fun and enjoyable for both you and your horse.  It requires a little more caution and alertness, but it can help your horse become more confident with his or her ability to maneuver in challenging conditions.  It can also help to create a deeper bond of trust between you and your mount.  You both will have to depend on each other if you get into some tricky slick terrain.  But most of all remember to have fun, and enjoy the winter wonderland. 

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