Horses’ hooves grow at a slower rate in the winter so it is very important to ensure that your horse grows good quality horn during the winter. It is a good idea to feed a supplement that is high in biotin and supplies an adequate level of vitamins and minerals.

Frozen ground in the winter can be cause for soreness and bruises caused by the concussion on the hard and uneven ground.

The increase in wet weather conditions can cause multiple issues for your horses’ hooves and lower limbs. Thrush may develop in very wet conditions as bacteria likes damp, warm environments such as the sides of the frog. Wet weather can also cause the hoof wall to expand and contract, this allows bacteria to invade the capsule, where they can then multiply and produce an abscess which can be incredibly painful for your horse. Trying to minimise the moisture levels during the winter is important for good healthy hooves.

It is very important to check over your horses’ feet in thick, deep mud as this can cause shoes to become loose or even come off altogether. If a shoe becomes loose, dirt and debris can get trapped in between the shoe and the hoof and then lead to infection.