Although a horse is a hardy creature, a little TLC never hurt.

Are you and your horse's hooves prepared for winter temperatures? A healthy horse’s hoof can withstand winter temperatures very well, but if your horse has hoof problems, the cold can take a toll. Your horse may begin to move more stiffly, even when he’s not on frozen, uneven ground. To give him some relief from hoof problems, try this:

Make a ball of your favorite premixed poultice (available at most veterinary supply stores), enough to fill the bottom of the foot. Put it into a plastic sandwich bag. Heat for about 20 seconds in the microwave. Cut off one side of the bag, leaving the ball of poultice resting on a single layer of plastic. Apply this to the bottom of the foot, using the plastic to apply pressure to spread the poultice out evenly. Place the foot inside a hoof boot for prolonged warming effect. Ahhh, your horse’s foot will feel better.