As winter approaches it is important to ensure that you are prepared for the cooler weather, and that your horse is ready for the winter.
Here are a few pieces of advice from the staff at Bettertack that can help you prepare for the next few months:
At this time of year, the weather can change quickly, so it is important you ensure your horse remains comfortable and happy.
Regular grooming is especially important to make sure that any mud and dirt is removed. This allows for your horse’s coat to fluff up, something it does naturally in order to retain heat.
After grooming, it is important to keep the coat protected. At Bettertack you will find a large selection of rugs in a variety of weights, to help keep out the wet and cold weather.
Stock is held from the Bridleway and Horseware ranges.
Ensure that you have a field shelter or stable available to your horse to help protect him from the elements.
If you have a stable always ensure this is kept clean and it is free of holes where rain and cold air can find a way through.
Clean out regularly, using appropriate bedding, again seek advice about what is available and will suit your needs.
Fresh water is an important part of your horse’s diet, so ensure your outdoor taps and pipes are fully functional and insulated to avoid freezing.
With the grass becoming scarce, and lacking in nutritional value, it is also important to start supplying additional hard feed and hay.
There are lots of different things to consider when choosing a feed, your decision should be based on your horse’s age, condition and the amount and type of work and exercise he will be getting.
Going for the cheapest can sometimes be counter-productive, so it’s always worth getting some advice.
The staff at Bettertack, based at Birchgrove Garden Centre in Pinchbeck, are trained in animal nutrition and can help you find the most suitable feed for your horse.
Bettertack also stock many top equestrian brands – you will find Champion riding hats and Airowear body protectors and there is a free fitting service to make sure you get the correct size.
As the nights draw in, you will also find a vast array of fluorescent hi visibility products to help you been seen, and of course you will find all of the latest equestrian and a few fashion lines from the very popular autumn/winter Joules clothing collection.
Bettertack is open from 9am to 5pm Monday to Saturday, and 10am till 4pm on Sunday.
