← Autumn horse care checklist: free PDF

Autumn checklist

What to check before winter, in September and October (southern hemisphere: March and April)

Halster

Horse

Year

Grass and field

  • Discuss this horse’s grazing plan and record agreed times
  • Report changes in pasture, feed and health
  • Check fencing, power, gates and ground
  • Identify poisonous plants and prevent access
  • Agree tests and any treatment with the vet

Rugs

  • Check rugs and fastenings; follow maker’s care instructions
  • Record rugging instructions and checking times
  • Discuss clipping with the person caring for the horse
  • Assign skin, fit and dry-rug checks

Hay and water

  • Plan stock from the agreed daily amount: ____ kg / ____ bales
  • Store hay dry; record batch and supplier
  • Keep water accessible; agree checks and frost arrangements
  • Use diet and salt/electrolyte instructions suited to the horse
  • Review the feeding plan if condition or cold exposure changes

Health

  • Vaccinations checked in the passport or records; next date in the calendar
  • Weight and condition recorded (tape, photos), because winter hides a lot
  • Teeth checked if more than a year ago
  • Farrier cycle for winter agreed
  • Normal values (temperature, pulse) measured once and put on the “Before you call the vet” sheet

Yard and paperwork

  • Stable dry, airy and draught-free; lighting works for the dark hours
  • Stable card and horse sitter instructions up to date
  • Insurance and contact details of vet and farrier checked
  • Christmas: who feeds, and is it arranged?