Winter can be tough times for horse owners that don't have places to ride their horses. They've spent all spring, summer and fall working on skills with their horse that then goes to the wayside when winter and lack of facilities comes upon them. Don't forget: Every time you are around your horse you are training him. Just because it's winter doesn't mean you shouldn't train for and expect good behavior. No crowding you while feeding, leading properly, standing for the vet and farrier and so on. Sometimes when our horses have been cooped up for a long period of time we accept the excuses for bad or unsafe behavior. The reality of it is there is no excuse for bad behavior. Bad behavior equals unsafe behavior.

Solutions to less than ideal conditions can be things like practicing groundwork. This can be accomplished in as small an area as the barn aisle or in a driveway. Be creative, but safe, with your riding work. Though it can be done on trail it doesn't have to be a long ride. Think of a trail as a large arena. If trails are not accessible there are local riding clubs, fairgrounds and other facilities that would probably have times available for a ride here and there. Properly designed arenas are still useable when pastures are not. They don't have to be covered.

Work on basics such as yielding the hindquarters, stops, collection and back ups. Don't trot or lope in mindless circles. Instead, use serpentines to perfect directional control and softness. When on trail practice crossing water by slowing things down and letting the horse figure it out at their own pace.

Preparing for the trail is another thing you can do when the weather is not cooperating. Teach your horse how to side up to objects for easier mounting. Get them used to slickers but be sure to take it one step at a time being very careful when teaching them to accept taking it on and off.

Keeping your horse in mental and physical shape through winter will pay off in the spring during your first trail ride. While it may be tempting to feed more to keep them warm be careful of weight increase. It's easier to keep it off than to take it off. While arenas and round pens may be unusable during winter there is nothing from preventing you from taking your horse for a walk around the barnyard or down a quiet country road. You can even take them on a trail walk rather than a ride. This will help keep both of you in shape.

Have fun this winter and be creative. Don't let rain or snow stop you. Take it as an opportunity - a training opportunity. Last I checked you may be sweet but you aren't made of sugar. And always remember that if you're having a specific problem with your horse, just shoot me an e-mail and I'm happy to help.

Happy New Year from all of us here at Critter Creek Ranch!