Let there be light
Head torches were a useful invention but having adequate light around a yard and ideally near paddocks will help avoid accidents as well as making all necessary tasks considerably easier. Lighting is also a good security feature particularly when motion sensors are installed.
Time saving tools
Rubber matting is a time saving and cost reducing investment. Although the initial installation costs may seem daunting, the benefits are reaped during the winter months as less bedding is needed, therefore cutting costs and time spent mucking out. Adding features such as wall clips for water buckets to prevent horses from kicking buckets over and providing you with extra mucking out are also worthy investments.
Freezing water
Freezing water sources remains a continual issue for all horse owners on colder days. In order to prevent this, lagging around water pipes is essential. Foam pipe insulation can be sourced from most DIY shops and is very effective. A secondary water source is advisable and purchasing a large water bin which can be filled and stored either undercover, or under an old turnout rug, will provide you with immediate access to water. In addition, check supplies to field troughs and wash-down areas for leaks: while water will filter away during the warmer months it can become a frozen ice rink once temperatures drop. Placing a football in your water troughs can help prevent freezing.
Drying wet rugs
If at all possible create a designated area with hanging for drying out wet rugs and other pieces of kit. Not everywhere benefits from a heater but having somewhere under cover is a good start. Portable storage heaters can also be a good idea to help dry out wet tack, rugs and combat damp. Oiling tack will help prevent the leather going dry and brittle in the artificial heat and prevent mould.
Prevention is better than cure
Book a salt delivery. However hard you try it is impossible to prevent water from freezing around yards. Horses, especially those with shoes on, should never be subject to icy surfaces and putting salt out before a big freeze can prevent nasty accidents.
All weather facilities
If you’re lucky enough to have proper training facilities, be it an outdoor manège or an indoor school, its usage is likely to be much greater during the winter months. Check it’s fit for purpose: is there sufficient surface to cope with the extra use and who will take on the responsibility for keeping it raked and clean? By harrowing the surface the night before a heavy frost, it will make sure that the surface is consistently level and prevent large clumps of the surface freezing into a solid mass. It will also make it easier to harrow in the morning. If there are a number of people all wanting to use it before and after work consider setting up a rota to avoid latecomers becoming frustrated.
Take a look at some equestrian properties on the market with all weather facilities:
