Spring into action this April : Elevate your equine care routine and let your horse shine

What April Means for Equine Care and Routine

April is a transitional month in the UK horse calendar. With longer days, warming temperatures, and the countryside beginning to bloom, horses and their owners, start to shake off the last of winter. But this time of year also brings its own unique challenges and opportunities when it comes to horse care, management, and training.

The Spring Awakening
April often marks the return to more consistent turnout for many horses. As paddocks dry out and the grass begins to grow, horses start to spend more time outside. While this is great for mental and physical wellbeing, it’s important to manage the transition carefully, especially if your horse has been stabled over winter.

1. Introduce grazing gradually to avoid digestive upsets or the risk of laminitis in susceptible horses.
2. Keep a close eye on weight gain as lush spring grass can quickly lead to piling on the pounds.
3. Check fencing and pasture for any damage caused over the winter months.

Shedding Season in Full Swing
If your horse hasn’t already started shedding, April is usually when coat changes are in full effect. Daily grooming becomes even more important—not just to help with the loose hair, but also to check for skin issues, lumps, or ticks as the weather warms up.

1. Use shedding blades or grooming gloves to help remove the winter coat.

2. Check for signs of mud fever, rain scald, or other seasonal skin conditions.

3. If your horse is in regular work or competing, consider clipping to help manage sweating.

Training and Competition Prep
With competition season on the horizon (or already underway for some), April is the time to get back into a regular training rhythm. Whether you’re prepping for local dressage, eventing, or hacking holidays, now’s the time to build fitness gradually.

Focus on strength and conditioning, especially if your horse has had a quiet winter.
Schedule any necessary vet checks, physio sessions, or tack fittings to ensure everything is in working order.
Make sure your horse's vaccinations, dentistry, and worming are up to date before hitting the road.

Spring Health Checks
As routines change, it's a great time to schedule in seasonal health care:

1. Worming: Use April as a time to do faecal egg counts and treat accordingly.
2. Dentistry: Horses should have their teeth checked at least once a year—spring is ideal, especially if you’re ramping up work.
3. Hoof care: As turnout increases, hooves may soften or dry out depending on the weather. Regular trims and proper hoof conditioning are essential.
4. Watch Out for Allergies & Sweet Itch

Spring also means the return of midges and pollen, which can cause issues for sensitive horses.

Use fly rugs and masks early to help horses prone to sweet itch.
Speak to your vet about supplements or topical treatments if your horse suffers from seasonal allergies.

In Summary
April is a month of growth and energy—perfect for resetting routines, refreshing care plans, and getting back to doing what we love with our horses. With a little planning and regular attention, you can set your horse up for a happy, healthy, and productive spring season.

If you’d like help preparing your horse for the months ahead—whether through physiotherapy, hydrotherapy, nutritional advice or seasonal planning—our team is here to support you.