Re: Snow/bitter climates

["Kathy & Mike Kelly" <reallykk@infomagic.net>]

Hi Kris,

My coldest ride so far this winter was 28degreees, but it wasn't windy and
in the sun I was quite comfy.

My vet says horses are most comfortable at 18 degrees, and I believe it,
because they get quite frisky when its cold.  When I ride Gabriel gets a bit
sweaty, although we mostly walk the deep snow is like riding in sand and
gives him a workout.

I just make sure my ride is done before the sun goes down to give him awhile
to dry before the temperature drops.  I also make sure the bit is warm
before putting it in his mouth.  Usually after I ride I give him beet pulp
soaked in warm water.

I think you'll find your horse does fine in the colder weather, and you can
have some beautiful cold weather rides!

Kathy in N AZ (7000+ feet elevation)


----- Original Message -----
From: "Kris Givens" <givensb@prodigy.net>
To: "Ridecamp" <ridecamp@endurance.net>
Sent: Tuesday, January 01, 2002 12:21 PM
Subject: RC: Snow/bitter climates


> For the second time in less than two months west Texas is covered with
> snow.  When we get snow as early as we did in the season (November) then
> snow again the first of January it makes for a very long winter.  I am
> simply not used to this.  All week long the weather has been bitter
> cold.  Wind chills low, wind miserable, and not over 40 degrees in
> several days.  Needless to say, I'm not riding in this mess.
>
> It brings to mind this question: what is your temperature cut off for
> riding?  40 degrees?  45 degrees?  Less?  More?  Do you factor in wind
> speed and wind chill?
>
> Since I've always ridden in either hellish heat or nice weather but not
> bitter cold it also makes me wonder how I would handle the 'after ride'
> care of my horses.  If they are sweaty would I make sure they are
> totally dry before turned out?  If they start out wet from snow before I
> even saddle up what then?
>
> I don't want to be a weenie about weather.  Truth be told I'd prefer to
> not ride when it is less than say, 60 degrees.  But I figure I might as
> well suck it up, bundle up, and give it a go.  That is.....if it is safe
> for the horse and I know a bit more about horsecare during cold weather.
>
> Any tips from you folks living a bit further north that have to deal
> with this weather often?
>
> kris
>
>
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