Mud, wet ground, and cold weather can all cause problems for your pony’s hooves, so winter hoof care is really important.
Pick your pony’s hooves out every day. In winter, mud, stones, and wet bedding can pack in and cause bruising or even infections. It only takes a couple of minutes and makes a huge difference.
Muddy conditions can also lead to a nasty skin condition called mud fever, which affects the lower legs and heels. You’ll notice it as sore, scabby patches, often on white legs. If you spot it, tell an adult straight away; mud fever is much easier to treat when it’s caught early. Keeping your pony’s legs clean and dry as much as possible is the best way to prevent it.
Your farrier should still visit every six weeks in winter, even if your pony isn’t shod. Overgrown hooves can crack, split, and cause your pony to move uncomfortably, so keeping on top of trimming is just as important in the colder months.
