Riding in winter is still possible and can be lots of fu; you just need to take a few extra steps to keep your pony safe and comfortable.
Always warm your pony up slowly before asking them to work harder. Cold muscles are stiffer and more prone to injury, so start with a good 10 minutes of walk before moving into trot or canter. This is especially important on cold days.
Cooling down properly at the end of a ride is just as important. Never put a sweaty pony straight into a cold stable; they can get a chill very quickly. Walk until their breathing returns to normal, and feel their neck and chest to check they’re not damp. If they are, you can use a cooler rug (a special breathable rug designed to wick away sweat) until they’re dry.
If there’s ice or frost on the ground, it’s best to skip riding or stick to a safe, non-slip surface. No schooling session is worth the risk of your pony slipping. There’s always tomorrow!
