Hey, it’s Jack here. I remember the first time it rained after I got my horse, Bella.
She was shivering like crazy and I had no idea what to do. I tried everything from blankets to raincoats, but nothing seemed to work.
I even tried singing her a lullaby (which was probably the funniest sight you’ve ever seen).
But after a lot of trial and error, I finally figured out a few tricks to stop my horse from shivering in the rain.
And trust me, it’s a game changer. No more shivering horse and no more awkward lullaby singing. So let’s get started!
Table of Contents
1. Make sure they have shelter
The first and most obvious tip is to make sure your horse has access to shelter when it’s raining. This could be a barn, a shed, or even just a tree to stand under. Having a dry place to escape the rain will help keep your horse warm and comfortable.
2. Use a raincoat or blanket
If your horse doesn’t have access to shelter, a raincoat or blanket can help keep them dry and warm. Just make sure the raincoat or blanket fits properly and isn’t too bulky, as this can restrict your horse’s movement.
3. Use a hood or neck cover
A hood or neck cover can help keep your horse’s head and neck dry, which can make a big difference in their comfort level. Just make sure the hood or neck cover fits properly and doesn’t restrict their vision.
4. Make sure they have a dry place to lie down
If your horse likes to lie down in the rain, make sure they have a dry place to do so.
A muddy or wet lying area can make your horse uncomfortable and increase the risk of respiratory issues.
5. Use a waterproof sheet or turnout blanket
A waterproof sheet or turnout blanket can help keep your horse dry and warm in the rain. Just make sure the sheet or blanket fits properly and isn’t too bulky.
6. Keep them exercised and moving
Exercise and movement can help increase your horse’s circulation and body heat, which can help prevent shivering. Just make sure to take safety precautions and avoid slippery or dangerous areas.
7. Use a slow feeder or hay net
Providing your horse with a slow feeder or hay net can give them something to do and help keep their body heat up. Just make sure to monitor their intake and provide enough hay to meet their needs.
8. Use a heated water bucket or water heater
A heated water bucket or water heater can help keep your horse’s water from freezing in cold weather. This is especially important in the rain, as cold water can lower your horse’s body temperature and increase the risk of shivering.
9. Use a waterproof and breathable turnout rug
A waterproof and breathable turnout rug can help keep your horse dry and comfortable in the rain. Just make sure the rug fits properly and allows for proper ventilation.
10. Use hoof oil or petroleum jelly on their hooves
Applying hoof oil or petroleum jelly to your horse’s hooves can help protect them from the wet and muddy ground. This can help prevent thrush and other hoof issues that can arise in wet conditions.
11. Use a dry bedding material
Using a dry bedding material, such as straw or wood shavings, can help keep your horse’s stall or shelter dry and comfortable. Wet or muddy bedding can make your horse uncomfortable and increase the risk of respiratory issues.
12. Make sure they have access to warm water
Providing your horse with warm water can help increase their body temperature and prevent shivering. Just make sure the water is not too hot and always provide a source of cold water as well.
13. Use a warm, waterproof rug for added warmth
A warm, waterproof rug can provide an extra layer of insulation and help keep your horse warm and dry in the rain. Just make sure the rug fits properly and allows for proper ventilation.
14. Use a high-quality feed with added fat or oil
A high-quality feed with added fat or oil can provide your horse with extra energy and insulation, which can help prevent shivering. Just make sure to monitor their intake and avoid overfeeding.
15. Use a windbreak or barrier to block the wind
A windbreak or barrier can help block the wind and keep your horse warm and dry. This can be especially helpful if your horse is prone to shivering in windy conditions.
16. Use a heated blanket or pad for added warmth
A heated blanket or pad can provide your horse with an extra source of warmth and help prevent shivering. Just make sure to use them safely and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
17. Use a vapor rub or essential oils to open airways
Using a vapor rub or essential oils, such as eucalyptus or menthol, can help open your horse’s airways and improve their breathing. This can be especially helpful if your horse is prone to respiratory issues in wet or cold conditions.
FAQ
What can I do if my horse is already shivering in the rain?
If your horse is already shivering in the rain, there are a few things you can try. First, make sure they have access to shelter or use a raincoat or blanket to help keep them dry and warm. You can also try providing them with a slow feeder or hay net to keep their body heat up, or use a warm, waterproof rug for added insulation. Additionally, you can try using a vapor rub or essential oils to help open your horse’s airways and improve their breathing.
Is it normal for horses to shiver in the rain?
It’s normal for horses to shiver in the rain, especially if they’re not used to it or if they’re not properly equipped to handle wet and cold conditions. However, excessive shivering can be a sign of discomfort or illness, so it’s important to pay attention to your horse’s behavior and address any issues as needed.
Can horses get sick from being in the rain?
Horses can get sick from being in the rain if they’re not properly cared for or if they have underlying health issues.
Wet and cold conditions can increase the risk of respiratory issues, such as pneumonia, and can also lead to hoof problems, such as thrush. It’s important to provide your horse with proper shelter, nutrition, and care to keep them healthy and happy in the rain.
Conclusion:
So there you have it, folks. 17 tips to stop horses shivering in the rain. No more shivering horses and no more awkward lullaby singing (trust me, it’s a relief for everyone).
Just remember to provide your horse with proper shelter, use protective gear as needed, and make sure they’re well-fed and exercised. And if all else fails, break out the vapor rub and essential oils. Happy riding!