Spring Horse Care: How to Prepare for the Season Ahead

Introduction

Spring is an exciting time for horse owners—longer days, warmer weather, and more time in the saddle! But transitioning your horse from winter to spring requires extra attention to ensure they stay comfortable and healthy.

From shedding season to fitness conditioning, here’s how to get your horse ready for spring and set them up for success! 🐎☀

1. Shedding Season: Helping Your Horse Ditch the Winter Coat

As daylight hours increase, your horse will naturally begin shedding their thick winter coat. While this process happens naturally, you can help speed it up and keep their skin healthy.

✅ How to Manage Shedding:
✔ Use a curry comb and shedding blade daily to remove loose hair.
✔ Apply ShowBarn Secret® Powder Coat to absorb dirt and oil while promoting a sleek, shiny coat.
✔ Bathe with a gentle shampoo once temperatures allow to wash away winter grime and refresh the skin.

💡 Pro Tip: Shedding season can make horses itchy and uncomfortable—regular grooming not only helps their coat but also improves circulation and skin health!

2. Hoof & Leg Care: Adjusting to Spring Conditions

Spring often means mud, shifting ground conditions, and an increase in activity—all of which can affect hoof and leg health.

✅ Best Practices for Hoof & Leg Health:
✔ Clean hooves daily to check for thrush, abscesses, or cracks caused by mud and moisture.
✔ Monitor for swelling or soreness, as changing ground conditions can put extra stress on joints and tendons.
✔ Apply Draw It Out® Liniment post-ride to reduce inflammation and support muscle recovery.

💡 Pro Tip: Schedule a farrier visit early in the season to address any hoof growth changes from winter to spring!

3. Nutrition & Hydration: Preparing for Increased Activity

With more turnout and riding, your horse’s diet and hydration needs will shift. Proper nutrition ensures optimal energy levels and muscle health.

✅ Spring Nutrition Tips:
✔ Monitor body condition and adjust grain and forage as needed.
✔ Introduce fresh grass slowly to prevent digestive upset or laminitis.
✔ Provide electrolytes if your horse is sweating more with increased activity.

💡 Pro Tip: Hydration is key—ensure fresh, clean water is always available, and consider offering soaked hay or mash for extra moisture intake.

4. Conditioning & Fitness: Easing Into More Work

If your horse had a light workload over winter, gradually reintroducing exercise is crucial to prevent injury and soreness.

✅ Spring Fitness Plan:
✔ Start with groundwork and light lunging to rebuild muscle and flexibility.
✔ Incorporate hill work and stretching exercises to improve strength and balance.
✔ Always cool down properly and apply Draw It Out® Liniment post-ride to support muscle recovery.

💡 Pro Tip: Increase workload gradually over a few weeks to prevent tendon and ligament strain.

Spring horse care is all about transitioning safely into the new season. With a focus on:

✅ Grooming & shedding support
✅ Hoof & leg health
✅ Balanced nutrition & hydration
✅ Smart conditioning & fitness routines

…you can set your horse up for a strong, healthy season ahead! 🌷

💪 Make Draw It Out® Liniment part of your spring routine to keep your equine partner feeling their best every ride! 🐎✨

🚀 Want to keep your horse feeling great this spring? Try Draw It Out® Liniment for natural muscle relief, inflammation reduction, and fast recovery! 🌿🐴

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