In the winter most horse owners are busy with moving snow, putting on blankets, fixing frozen water tanks, and of late fixing fence due to the snow. What we forget about or overlook is the need to have proper winter hoof care. Here at the ranch depending on what we are doing with the horse will depict the hoof care that is needed. We have some horses that get the winter off and need trimmed, while others who are working at the feedlot or still being used in the arena have shoes. Before winter arrives I have a good conversation with my farrier on what we are going to do with each horse. There fore, we have a definate hoof care program in place for winter.

These for scenarios in the article “Winter Hoof Care for Horses” by Fran Jurga are what every equine owner has gone through in at least one Nebraska winter, plus there is some good advice on winter hoof care.