Are there any special things I should consider for winter hoof care?
Wisconsin’s four seasons provide very different environmental conditions that can affect hoof health and ultimately the soundness of your horse.  Factors that need to be considered over the winter months are snow, ice and excessively wet conditions.  Many horses have their shoes removed in late fall due to decreased work load over the winter months and to prevent an increased chance of injuries on slick ground.  This may not be an option if your horse requires corrective farrier work to remain sound or remains in training year round; for these horses snow pads may be effective or various traction devices can be applied to certain types of horse shoes.  Horses feet should be picked daily to avoid excessive accumulation of ice and snow forming an uneven ball for your horse to stand on; barefoot horses applying non stick cooking spray to the bottom of the sole may aid in prevention of this buildup.  Regardless of how you intend to use your horse over the winter it is crucial to keep them up to date on routine farrier work.