Why Can't I Ride Now?

A question came to my mind a month or two ago. I knew I wasn't supposed to be riding this time of year, but why? I mean, if Nugget needs training any time, it's when it's cold. And it's not like he's any weaker or anything like that, and he's certainly warm enough... I decided it was time to do a little research.

When you put a saddle on a horse, cinch him up, and ride around for an hour or so, maybe going at a canter or gallop, your horse gets heated up. In the spring, summer, and fall, this is no big deal. You can give your horse some cool down time and he'll be fine. Now what's the problem with doing this in winter? Horses sweat, as you probably know. And you know how when you get out of a shower when it's cold? Yeah, you feel frozen until you dry out and get clothes on. Sweat has the same effect on horses. Only they can't dry off and cuddle up in clothing. If it's below freezing, your little baby is an icicle. How can some people ride in the winter? They have stabled horses, the horses are clipped, the horses are blanketed, and/or they are abusing their horses. If your horse IS clipped, stabled, and/or blanketed, you still want to give your horse a very thorough grooming, getting off as much sweat as you possibly can (that's why they make sweat scrapers), and make sure he stays warm (by his terms, not ours).

How do you keep your horse safe in winter?

1. Blanket your horse. If your horse is clipped, a blanket is necessary. 2. Avoid working your horse into a sweat. Cold and liquid don't mix. Don't kill your baby because you want to have a little fun. 3. If you aren't going to be riding hard or often, DON'T CLIP YOUR HORSE! Leave his winter coat for warmth. 4. If you must ride, warm up the bit before you put it in his mouth. You don't like chewing on cold metal bars, do you? 5. Make sure your horse has plenty of food. It's his fuel - if he runs out, his heat is gone. 6. Make sure your horse has access to fresh, unfrozen water. A heated waterer is good. Otherwise, break up/refill the water every couple of hours. 7. Try to ride your horse bareback. Saddles build more heat and more sweat.

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