Discover low-cost, effective strategies for fencing, hydration, and preventing common winter problems like colic. Keep your horse safe and healthy all season long.
As Murphy’s Law states, "Anything that can go wrong will go wrong." This saying often feels true for horse owners during the winter. The days are short, the weather is icy and cold, and horses can become more difficult to manage.
They find ways to escape pastures as snow and ice weaken fence lines. They may colic more often from dehydration because they are reluctant to drink frigid water. These incidents are stressful and costly, both emotionally and financially. However, with smart, low-cost management, owners can navigate the winter blues and keep stress to a minimum.
Low-Cost Temporary Fencing Solutions
Winter brings snow and ice, which can add significant weight to fences. This pressure, combined with moisture, can damage fence boards and posts, leading to unplanned escapes. Repairing wood, vinyl or PVC fencing is challenging in winter because the ground is frozen and materials are more likely to break or shatter. A simple solution is to invest in temporary fencing.
Consult your local farm supply store, co-op or a fencing company about temporary materials. Temporary posts should be made of self-insulating materials like plastic, composite or fiberglass. You should also consider how this temporary fencing will connect to your permanent fence.
Common options include:
- Electrified tape: This is the most common option. The tape is usually 1 to 1.5 inches wide. Use contrasting colors such as white and black to make it more visible to horses.
- Polyrope: This comes in various diameters. For horses, a larger diameter is recommended to increase visibility.
- Livestock gates: In a pinch, spare livestock gates can serve as a temporary barrier for fence openings. Ensure the gates are securely tied to your permanent fencing and are long enough to cover the gap.
Temporary fencing is typically electrified to deter curious horses. Ensure the charger is appropriately sized for the job. Chargers are rated in joules, and you will need about one joule of output energy per mile of fence. Proper grounding is also crucial for the electric circuit to be effective. To ground the fence, drive a 3- to 4-foot metal rod into the ground near the charger.
Portable and Heated Water Sources
Horse owners cannot underestimate the importance of water during winter. When a horse consumes dry forage without drinking enough water, the risk of impaction colic skyrockets. Every pasture should have a clean, easily accessible water source that is large enough for the number of horses present. It should be checked daily, kept clean and, ideally, heated.
Breaking ice out of buckets and troughs is a difficult chore. To prevent freezing and keep water at a more inviting temperature, consider these options:
- Heated buckets: These are ideal for stalls, as they require an outlet commonly found in barns. Be careful not to overload your electrical circuits.
- Water trough heaters: These are suitable for pasture shelters. You will need a power source and an extension cord designed for outdoor use. The cord should be safely covered. When refilling troughs, always disconnect the hose from the spigot after use and drain it to prevent freezing.
- Insulated automatic waterers: While more expensive, these are the most practical and least labor-intensive option. Consider this a long-term investment that will save time and effort. When installing, ensure the water pipes are also insulated.
Conclusion
Winter can make simple tasks more challenging for horse owners. Plan during the summer and fall so you are prepared when a fence post breaks or water sources freeze. Maintain your permanent fences during the warmer months so they are ready for winter’s challenges. By investing in temporary fencing and heated water options, you can reduce your workload and minimize the risk of equine emergencies.
This article is for informational purposes only. Consult with a veterinarian for your horse’s health needs.
