The 23rd of September marks the first day of spring in New Zealand! This means we have almost made it through winter and it’s time to say goodbye to the mud and the rain (hopefully). The fast approaching spring also means that it’s time to start preparing our horses for the upcoming season.
Here are some pro tips to help your horse make a smooth transition from winter to spring.
Start changing your feeding routine gradually
Spring and winter feeding may be significantly different for many reasons: maybe you increased hard feed in winter to combat weight loss, or maybe you decreased the amount of feed if your horse was turned out. Whatever the reason, feeding in spring may be significantly different than feeding in winter as spring signifies the start of lush grass growth and increased riding time.
Many horse owners change their feeding routine quickly in response to changes in their horses’ behaviour or physical condition. However, being proactive about changes in the feed routine will allow you to take more time and introduce changes gradually. Changing the horses feed intake slowly allows the stomach to adjust and helps to avoid stomach ulcers and colitis.
If your horse tends to pile on the weight with the lush grass, now is a good time to start slowly decreasing the amount of feed that you give. Alternatively, if your horse tends to drop weight as he comes into work, now is a good time to start increasing the amount that you feed.
Help your horse with shedding
The horses coat will shed and change as the weather gets warmer. Biotin can be used to help the horse develop a shiny, resilient coat and combat the dry flakes of skin which is common as the coat changes. Biotin also encourages healthy hoof growth with is an added bonus.
Regular brushing and occasionally washing the horse will help bring out the best in your horse’s coat. Spring is often warm and damp which may bring about an influx of bacterial activity. Washing your horse with a medicated or anti-bacterial wash may help to avoid some of the common skin irritants at this time of year.
Monitor water quality
As the weather gets warmer your horse will drink much more water. Bacteria build up in troughs over winter and can grow rapidly as the warmer weather comes in. The start of spring is a good time to do a spring clean of your troughs to avoid bacteria build up which may cause stomach issues for some horses. An antibacterial agent is recommended and can be found at most farm supplies stores.
Spring clean your gear
During winter when the ground is wet and muddy, and the daylight hours are limited, it is easy for dirt and damage to go unnoticed. The start of spring is a great reminder to check your riding gear for cracks and damage and give leather gear a good clean and oil to help it last throughout the season.
Moody Mare
During spring many mares come into season and may struggle to balance their hormone levels. This may result in unsociable or aggressive behaviour. Many mares benefit from Chaste Tree Berry to help them avoid discomfort and correct their hormone balance. It may help to get in early before your horse starts showing symptoms of discomfort. Chaste Tree Berry is native to Southern Europe and Western Asia and is traditionally used to balance and regulate the hormonal system by supporting the pituitary glands normal function. It is used to correct hormonal disturbances to relax uncomfortable, moody mares and horses with behavioural troubles. Chaste berry may improve milk flow, support fertility, provide support to those with Cushings and Insulin Resistance and may also aid with shedding.
