Horses can actually do quite well without a blanket in even the most harsh winter storms. Their coat fluffs up like a blanket providing extra warmth and insulation. But there are circumstances when your horse really does need a blanket. Here are some things you’ll want to consider:

By preparing your horse for winter, you’re ensuring that he will be healthy and better able to deal with the cold weather.

Caring for older horses can be different than regular horse care, which is why it’s important to learn what older horses need and to find a boarding facility who is willing to meet those special needs. For example, most senior horses don’t process their feed as well as they did when younger. Typically older horses are on a senior feed and many facilities buy their feed in bulk so if you want something different, ask if you will need to provide it yourself.

If you have a horse with gastrointestinal (GI) issues such as chronic colic or gastric ulcers, you may need to look at how you manage him compared to other horses. Most of the research that goes into designing feeds and feed supplements is based on the “healthy" horse. But what about feeding those special needs horses with a GI or recovering GI problem?

While you may think spring is the best time to fertilize your pastures, it’s actually fall when grasses take in the most nutrients to store for the winter.

It can happen to any equestrian: a sudden spook, a miscalculation at a jump, or any bump on the head might cause a concussion. Wearing an appropriate helmet can help prevent such an injury, but it’s important for everyone—parents, coaches, barn mates, and equestrians themselves—to be aware of concussion’s warning signs. Here’s a handy reference list that can help you identify a possible concussion—and take the appropriate actions.

Colic can occur at any time of the year, but fall and winter seem to offer additional horse care challenges..

When taking your horse on the road to a show or trailhead, think of your horse trailer as a "barn on wheels" for your horse's comfort and safety.

The wide variety of equine diseases and when best to vaccinate against them can be a bit overwhelming for the horse owner. However, The American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) has endeavored to make things simpler with these guidelines for fall shots in adult horses.

Ah, remember summer? Long days for turning horses out to graze and play. But now that winter is slowly approaching, you and your horse will be spending more time inside the barn. Do a barn safety walk-through to be ready for extended inside time.