Easy Ways to Help Prevent Ice Balls This Winter

Winter weather doesn't have to mean you can't take your horse out and about. Looking for a safe, quiet hack in the snow but you are concerned about ice buildup in their hooves? There are a few things you can do to help prevent them from happening!

Thanks to our friends at Equus, we are sharing some tips from an article entitled "4 easy ways to ice-proof your horse's hooves" which offers some great ideas to get you started! (Click here for the full article or keep reading below for the tips!)

"One winter hazard that riders in northern climates know well is ice balls. When snow and ice get packed under a horse’s hoof, it warms up slightly against the sole, then freezes readily against the cold metal of the shoe. The ice can quickly build up until the horse is walking on a hard, solid mass of frozen material, called “ice balls” or “snowballs.” The wetter and more dense the snow, the more likely it is that snowballs will occur. “Slushier” ice will fall away from the foot more readily, and light, dry snow won’t pack well, but wet or icy snow can easily get compacted into a tight, hard block.'

'Walking on the uneven mass even for a short time can cause a number of problems from tripping and sliding to strains or sprains of the muscles, tendons and joints. Persistent snowballs can lead to bruises and hoof cracks. Horses do OK much of the
time when there is snow all around, but once on a firm surface, many will teeter as if they are on high-heeled shoes.

'Removing large masses of ice from under your horse’s feet can be difficult, and by the time you discover them, the damage may already be underway (Equus.com)."

1. Let your horse go barefoot.
2. Add anti-snowball pads.
3. Try a home remedy.
4. Get your horse hoof boots.

Don't feel like dealing with the ice and snow at all? Come board your horse at Southwind where  you have access to our lighted, indoor arena! Learn more at: www.southwindfarminc.com 

Who is Welcome at Southwind??

Did you know Southwind Farm is unique in that we are not a one-discipline farm? What about the fact that outside trainers are welcome to come teach their students and others? So, who exactly is welcome at Southwind?

• All breeds of horses
• All ages of horses
• All disciplines
• Outside trainers
• Outside veterinarians 
• Outside blacksmiths
• All types of equestrians are welcome in the Southwind Farm family!

Here at Southwind we have always emphasized a relaxed atmosphere that is essential to every horse’s well-being regardless of discipline! So what are you waiting for?

To find out more and our current rates, please visit our website: www.southwindfarminc.com or email Sheri at: sherithornley@msn.com

Ride Inside This Winter

Okay we can admit it, the recent mild temps for January have been wonderful! But don't let them fool you into thinking we aren't still going to have a winter. Colder temps and snow are likely to return so why chance it when you can ride inside this year?  Come join us at Southwind farm where you can utilize our indoor arena all winter long! Email sherithornley@msn.com for more information. 

Tips to Winterize Around the Barn

Winter brings a lot of bad weather but it doesn't have to mean poor horse care! Everyone around the farm works very hard each year in preparation for winter to ensure all of the horses get the very best care over the winter months. Because keeping horses and boarders happy and healthy is our #1 priority. Having an awesome indoor arena to ride year-round through the winter months is just a bonus here at Southwind! Learn more about boarding at www.southwindfarminc.com today!

Here are a few tips to winterize around the barn from an article from Debbie RAMM with RAMM fence:

• Safer Stalls Prevent Injuries. Check all of your stall walls to be sure that there are no protruding nails, sharp edges or worn feeders that could result in an injury. Replace any old wood and be sure your stalls are free from split, chewed, and uneven boards. Holes in stall walls or any open spaces can turn into a place for a potential injury from a kick or a curious nose.

• Ventilation is a Key to Better Health. Horse Barns need to have good ventilation so that your horses stay healthy. You can offer natural ventilation  through windows in your horse's stall. Hinged, grilled, or mesh doors allow you to open, close and clean your windows and sills while protecting your horse from the actual window.Additionally, mucking your stalls regularly will keep the build up of ammonia at bay.

• Save Both Time and Money with Stall Mats. Some of the benefits include using less bedding, keeping a level surface for your horse which also allows for easier and more efficient cleaning.

• Never Guess if Your Horse Has Enough Water. We all know that water is very important for our horses any time of the year and especially in cold months. Water not only hydrates, but also helps to keep horses warm in colder weather.  

• Store Up On Bedding.