Preparing Your Miniature Horses and Shetland Ponies for Winter
Winter is underway, and while your minis and Shetlands may be pint-sized, their care this season is no small feat. From fluffy coats to extra hay, here’s how to keep your little equines cozy, healthy, and ready to trot through the chilliest months with a sparkle in their eye.
As the temperatures start to drop and the days grow shorter, it’s time to start preparing your miniature horses and Shetland ponies for the winter season. These hardy little guys handle the cold better than many people expect, but they still need some extra care and preparation to stay healthy, comfortable, and happy through the chillier months.
Let the Winter Coat Do Its Job
Miniature horses and Shetlands naturally grow thick, insulating winter coats. Avoid over-clipping unless your pony is being shown or worked regularly, and make sure their nutrition supports healthy hair growth. A well-balanced diet with adequate protein, fat, and vitamins helps the coat stay soft and dense. If your horse is body-clipped or elderly, a properly fitted waterproof and breathable blanket may be needed for extra warmth. Consult with your veterinarian if you have a mini with special health needs.
Adjust Their Feeding Plan
Winter means your ponies will burn more calories to stay warm, so they’ll need extra forage. Feeding more hay is the best way to help them generate heat from the inside out. Grass quality declines as pastures fade, so test your hay or supplement with a ration balancer or vitamin/mineral mix to keep their nutrition balanced. Always provide fresh, unfrozen water. Heated water buckets can help prevent dehydration.
Provide Shelter from the Elements
Even though Shetlands and minis are tough, they still need protection from wind, rain, and snow. A three-sided run-in shed or well-bedded stall allows them to get out of bad weather when needed. Make sure shelters are dry, draft-free, and cleaned regularly to prevent respiratory issues.
Keep Hoof Care on Schedule
It’s easy to let farrier visits slip in the winter, but hoof care is just as important as ever. Minis and ponies can develop thrush or chipped hooves from wet or frozen ground. Regular trimming keeps hooves balanced and prevents problems later in the season.
Monitor Weight and Health
Because of their thick coats, it’s easy to miss subtle weight loss in winter. Run your hands along their ribs weekly to check body condition beneath the hair. Older ponies or those with metabolic conditions may need more frequent checks or dietary adjustments.
Plan for Safe Exercise
Even in cold weather, your miniature horses and ponies benefit from regular movement. Ensure paddocks are free of ice, provide good footing, and keep routines consistent. Winter walks or light groundwork can keep them physically and mentally fit.
With thoughtful preparation, your minis and Shetlands will thrive all winter long. Keep them cozy, healthy, and ready to greet spring in great shape. A little extra care now can make a big difference when the snow starts to fly!