Autumn Horse Care Checklist: Six Yard Jobs Before Winter

An autumn horse care checklist is useful before the yard routine starts slipping into darkness, wet rugs and hurried evening visits. Late September is a good time to spot repairs, organise supplies and agree who will cover the jobs when daylight is limited.

Start with a walk around the yard in daylight. Take a notebook, photograph anything that needs attention and put the most urgent repairs first. The aim is a workable plan for your own horse and yard.

1. Walk the paddock and check access

Inspect gates, catches and fencing, including corners you rarely pass during daily visits. Look for loose wire, damaged posts, rubbish and potentially poisonous plants. Check shelters for wear and make sure every horse can reach shelter safely.

Note where gateways and approaches to troughs are already becoming muddy. Discuss drainage or suitable surface repairs with the yard owner before access becomes difficult. Keep checking boundaries after strong winds.

2. Test the water supply

Clean troughs and buckets, check automatic drinkers and look for leaking connections. Make sure the water supply is accessible to every horse in the group.

Decide how you would provide clean drinking water if a pipe froze or the supply failed. Keep suitable containers ready and check pipe insulation before the first frosts, rather than waiting for an icy morning.

3. Sort rugs before you need them

Lay out turnout rugs and inspect straps, fastenings, linings and damage. Separate those ready to use from those needing repair, and label them clearly if several horses share a tack room.

Having a rug ready does not mean your horse needs to wear it. Base decisions on coat, condition, clipping, shelter and the weather throughout the day. A cold morning can become a mild afternoon, so arrange checks if you cannot return yourself.

Our turnout rug guide explains the different options.

4. Review forage deliveries and storage

Check what hay or haylage remains and speak to your supplier about delivery arrangements. Clear storage space and check for leaks before the next load arrives.

Forage should remain the basis of the diet, but amounts and any additional feed need to suit the individual horse. Record body condition now so you can notice changes. Ask a qualified equine nutritionist or your vet for advice if your horse struggles to maintain an appropriate weight.

5. Put skin checks into the daily routine

Remove rugs regularly to inspect the skin, rather than relying on a quick look at the visible parts of the horse. Watch for soreness, rubbing and crusty patches, and seek veterinary advice if anything changes.

Read our guide to rain scald in horses for signs to recognise and advice on when to call your vet.

6. Agree the routine for shorter days

Work out who can check horses, change rugs and bring in if your plans change. Test your torch, keep emergency numbers accessible and write down essential instructions for anyone covering your visits.

Introduce substantial changes to feeding and turnout gradually. Preserve opportunities for movement and social contact where possible, and discuss restrictions with your vet if your horse has particular health needs.

Your jobs for this weekend

• Walk the fence line and list repairs.
• Check water containers and the backup supply.
• Sort rugs into ready, repair and clean piles.
• Confirm forage delivery and storage space.
• Agree cover for morning and evening checks.

Further guidance: the British Horse Society’s pasture management, rugging and winter care advice.

This checklist provides general management information. Ask your vet for advice about your horse’s individual health and care requirements.