As a horse owner, trainer, or caregiver, it is 100% your responsibility to know your horse’s behavior and normal countenance. You must become an expert at decoding his or her body language, expressions, and vital signs to successfully monitor the physiological changes that are unique to the winter months.
Horses are affected differently by the elements depending on their age and breed, as well as their condition and circumstances, which include considerations such as: living arrangements, (i.e. a stall or a shed), coat density (i.e. using blankets or natural hair), and hoof status (i.e. shoes or barefoot).
But the most important factor to consider for all horses during the winter is water. Horses do not like ice cold water, and they will drink less if this is the only option given to them. Since a healthy horse’s water intake should be proportionate to 20 -30 % of his or her body weight in order to maintain proper hydration, this is a real concern. Reduced water intake slows normal gut functions, and can potentially lead to colic. It is critically important to provide a continual source of clean, fresh water between 55 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. To put these figures in perspective, a 1000 lb. horse should be drinking between 15 to 20 gallons in a 24 hour period; if not, increase the volume of water your horse drinks by providing warm water, increased salt, and a regular menu of bran mashes. If you use an electrical device to heat water troughs, tubs, and/or buckets, periodically check that there isn’t any short circuit causing shock to the horse.
To check the hydration of your horse, you can measure Capillary Refill Time by pressing quickly and gently on the gum above the upper teeth to force blood from the capillaries, thus creating a blanched spot. In a hydrated horse the gum should return to its natural pink color within 2 seconds, any longer is an indication of dehydration. Secondly, you can pull about an inch of the skin on your horse's neck up between your thumb, middle, and forefingers, and hold it for just a second and observe how quickly or slowly it slides back. If the skin remains "tented up", it is an indication of dehydration. Make time to become familiar with the normal color of your horse’s gums and the flesh inside the lower eye lid: both should be pink and moist. White and dry is a sign of anemia and/or dehyration.
Your greatest asset for your horse against dehydration is preparation: having a plan for winter about the water supply, keeping supplies like bran mash and salt on hand, and knowing your horse's vital signs. This will ensure a happy, healthy winter for you and your beloved equine!
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