Senior Horse Winter Routine: Warm Hands, Cool Legs (Dual-Care Plan)
Cold mornings don’t have to mean stiff steps. This 10-minute routine pairs a sensation-free leg pass with calm skin support—so seniors ease into movement without drama.
Why this works
Senior horses feel every temperature swing. A quick hands-on check, a sensation-free liniment pass to cool and clarify lower legs, light stretches, and a no-rinse skin routine create a consistent, winter-proof rhythm. Calm application matters—no burn, no menthol cloud, and residue-light so it fits daily barn life.
Warm Hands, Cool Legs—Step-by-Step
- Quick feel check (60–90s): Run warm hands over knees/hocks, tendons, fetlocks, and heels. Note heat, puffiness, scabs, or flinches.
- Cool-leg pass (2–3 min): Apply a thin layer of Draw It Out® 16oz Gel from just below the knee/hock down. No sting, no menthol plume—ideal for daily use and sensitive horses.
- Gentle mobility (3–4 min): Pick feet, slow carrot bows, step-under forehand/haunch turns, then 2–3 minutes of purposeful hand-walk.
- Skin & hair support (2–3 min): Work ShowBarn Secret® Skin & Hair Enhancer into the base of mane/tail and any skin-prone areas. No rinse. Helps defend against winter dryness and friction, while keeping hair silky and tangle-free.
- Rug wisely (as needed): Use a breathable cooler after work; avoid trapping moisture against skin.
Daily vs. pre-work use
In cold snaps, run this routine daily for seniors, and before light work or turnout. For actively competing horses, the same approach keeps legs feeling clear and skin cared for, without heavy residue or fragrances that linger.
What “sensation-free” really means
Draw It Out® Gel is formulated to be calm on application—no tingle or burn. That’s useful for older horses, sensitive horses, or routine handlers who want consistent compliance. It’s also designed to be show-program friendly; still, always check your discipline’s current guidance.
