All you need to know about winter turnout

Ponies love going out in the field so they can munch on some grass, stretch their legs and hang out with friends. Loads of them live out happily all day every day, whatever the weather or time of year, although there are some extra challenges to face in winter time. Here’s all you need to know to keep your pony in great condition this winter if he’s turned out 24/7…

Best turned out

It’s more natural for a pony to be outside than in a stable, and it can be healthier for him, too. Moving around’s better for his muscles and joints, plus he won’t be breathing in dust from bedding and hay. He’ll also enjoy being able to interact with his pony pals all the time, too.

Some owners find it easier to care for their ponies when they’re outside, but don’t think that it’s just an easy way to get out of your stable chores! While there’ll be no mucking out, you’ll still need to poo-pick regularly, and you may have to move an electric fence if you strip graze the field.

Did you know?

Ponies who live out may be calmer to ride, because they’re always on the move and use up lots of energy.

Good ground

Your pony will only be able to live out all-year-round if his field doesn’t get too wet and boggy in winter. He won’t enjoy standing up to his knees and hocks in mud all the time, plus it’ll put him at risk of skin conditions such as mud fever and thrush. He’ll also need a friendly companion he can go out with, as ponies may feel stressed if they’re all alone.

Top tip

If your pony hasn’t lived out before, it’s best to wait until spring or summer to change his routine, when the weather will be milder.

Did you know?

Even if your pony lives out, you’ll still need to visit him at least twice a day to make sure he has enough food and water and isn’t ill or injured.

What to wear

A pony who’s clipped will usually need a rug when he’s in the field. Choose one that’s waterproof and offers the right amount of warmth for the weather conditions. You may need to change it for a lighter weight rug in the daytime if the temperature’s likely to rise.

If he’s not clipped, or you’ve only removed a little bit of hair, he might be okay without a rug, especially if the weather’s on the warmer side. However, for wet days and nights he’ll probably appreciate a rain sheet to help him stay dry.

Top tip

Make sure you have a spare turnout rug for your pony, in case his usual one gets really wet or ripped.

Seeking shelter

Even if it seems like your pony prefers standing out in the rain to using his shelter, it’s really important he has somewhere he can get away from bad weather. A purpose-built field shelter’s ideal for this, but make sure it’s big enough for all the ponies in the field to reduce the risk of one of them getting cornered.

Tall hedges and trees can provide shelter from the sun, rain and wind in summer, but they’re not so useful at this time of year after their leaves have dropped off.

Top tip

Try to give your pony some rug-free time, so he can scratch his itchy places and feel the sun on his back. He’s sure to enjoy a rug-free roll, too!