Top tips to make sure you’re all set for winter

Autumn’s the perfect time to prepare for the colder weather – how ready are you?

The leaves are falling, the days are getting darker and shorter, so now’s the time to get ahead of the game with our top tips to make sure you and your pony are well prepared for the change of season.

Rugs – Make sure your pony has the right rugs. The weather is always unpredictable, so stay ahead of the game to keep your pony warm and dry. If you have any rugs from last year, make sure they are washed, waterproofed and ready for use, as your pony won’t appreciate wearing a smelly, muddy rug that lets the rain in!

Clipping – When your pony grows his warm winter coat, he’ll feel very sweaty if you continue riding him! Now is the time to book someone to clip him so he can stay cool and comfortable when you’re having fun together.

Grazing – Although the paddock won’t have as much grass and your pony might not be outside as often, it’s still important to make sure his grazing area is safe and secure and that the fencing isn’t in need of repair.

Stable – When the weather changes, your pony will probably spend his nights and occasionally some days in the stable. If you give his stable a good clean and remove the cobwebs in the autumn, your pony will have a pleasant environment to live in when it’s colder.

Water – Your pony’s field water trough is likely to freeze over at some point, so pop a small football in it at night when it’s really cold. Next morning, when you remove it, there will be a football-sized hole in the ice for your pony to drink through and it will also be easier for you to break the surrounding ice if necessary.

Bath time – Autumn is a good time to give your pony a bath before winter sets in and it’s too cold – and he’ll certainly need one before clipping so the blades can cut the hair properly. Use warm water if you can and be sure to put a warm rug on him afterwards, so he doesn’t catch a chill.