As predicted, rain arrived today, although from my account it was a bit earlier than forecast--sometime before 11AM instead of at noon. I'm always amazed when the forecasts are so accurate anyhow, so what's one hour?
It is a cold rain too, with chilly temperatures hovering just above freezing.
I had some nice lightweight winter blankets on the Boys, so I simply put their rainsheets on over top. The extra insulation will help protect them from the chill, and it certainly does make me feel better. And isn't that what horse blankets are all about anyhow? Aside from a few exceptions, most horses would probably be just fine without blankets as long as they have enough food, water, and adequate shelter.
But, my Boys have sheets, blankets, rainwear, and bug wear. Of all, I do think they appreciate the bugwear, and on days like today, I would have to think they might appreciate the rainwear.
Then again, where were they when I got home from church? Sheltering in one of the three run in sheds? Nope? Out in the middle of the pasture on a hill, totally exposed to the elements. Go figure.
One of my trainers theorized that horses prefer being out in the open because it allows them the freedom to see all around them, satisfying their natural instincts to be ready to flee from danger. As well, they don't like the sound of the rain on the roof, or the wind creaking through the rafters very much so the barn is not a haven after all.
Beats me. All I know is that even with my own raingear on, standing outside in weather like this is miserable.
I'll have to wait to see how much thaw there is in the ground. If we end up with mud, then Tucker will once again be on restricted turnout. I do think I will be putting him in his stall for the night to let his feet dry out, however. I don't want him to lose a shoe if I can do anything about it.
The rain is not really heavy so far, so we may luck out. I guess one more time it's just a matter of "wait and see."
we've got thawed land but you can feel the firmness underneath.. once it thaws properly it'll be horrid!
ReplyDeleteWish we had rain instead of the icy sleet that we are getting now. Everyone had their blankets on this morning whether they like it or not, and they don't. Hope the weather men are wrong and this won't continue for a few more days.
ReplyDeleteIt started around 9am down here. Yuck!
ReplyDeleteMy guys prefer to stand around in the weather, too. Makes me glad I spend all that time and money on shelters and bedding!
Seems like a good reason to me - standing in the open to see your predators as soon as possible. Tetley has three rugs on with this cold weather, though it's warming up now. He has no shelter at all so I have to dress him for the worst.
ReplyDeleteBy the way, thank you for the discussion on lunging and keeping the horses out on the circle. What you said makes sense and I will start on a small circle where I can reach him with the whip.