Protect Your Horse from Wind Chill This Winter

As temperatures drop and southerly winds pick up, wind chill becomes a serious factor for horse owners to consider. While horses are naturally equipped to handle cold weather, wind can strip away their insulating layer of warm air, making them much more vulnerable to cold stress and even hypothermia.

Here’s what you need to know about how wind chill affects your horse — and how to support them through the colder months with both good management and natural herbal care.

❄️ What Is Wind Chill and Why Does It Matter?

Wind chill is the “feels like” temperature — a combination of actual air temperature and wind speed. When the wind is strong, it disrupts the warm layer of air close to your horse’s skin, causing their body to lose heat rapidly.

This can lead to cold stress or hypothermia, especially in horses with:

• Clipped coats

• Low body condition

• Illness or weakened immunity

• Constant exposure to wind without shelter

Watch for signs like shivering, lethargy, tucked posture, or reduced appetite. If you notice any of these symptoms, act quickly — offer warmth, food, and water, and seek veterinary attention if needed.

🧣 How to Reduce Wind Chill Impact

Here are some simple but important ways to protect your horse:

• ✅ Shelter: Provide access to a stable or natural windbreaks like hedges or trees.

• ✅ Rug Wisely: Use a well-fitted winter rug appropriate for the weather and your horse’s needs.

• ✅ Feed More Fibre: The digestion of hay produces internal heat. Keep hay available throughout the day.

• ✅ Dry = Warm: Keep horses dry to help them retain heat more efficiently.

🌿 Herbal Support for Horses in Cold, Windy Weather

Supporting your horse internally is just as important as external protection. At Brookby Herbs, we offer natural remedies that can assist horses in staying strong, warm, and resilient during harsh weather conditions.

🐴 1. Immune Support

Cold wind can weaken the immune system, leaving horses more prone to respiratory issues and infection.

Try:
🟢 Immune Booster Plus — A powerful blend of Echinacea, Yarrow, and Rosehips to help your horse fight off seasonal bugs and stay resilient.
🟢 Rosehips — Naturally rich in vitamin C and antioxidants for year-round immune support.

🐴 2. Circulation & Warmth

Supporting good blood flow helps your horse maintain warmth in cold, windy conditions.

Try:
🟢 Free Mover Plus — Our customer favourite for circulation, joint comfort, and overall mobility. It includes herbs like Devil’s Claw for inflammation.

🟢 Hawthorn Berries (dried or liquid) — Known to support healthy blood flow and circulatory support.

🐴 3. Respiratory Health

Wind and damp conditions can irritate the lungs and increase the risk of respiratory issues, especially for older or stabled horses.

Try:
🟢 Immune Booster Plus  — A gentle blend of Mullein, Marshmallow, and Rosehips to soothe airways and keep breathing clear.

🐾 A Natural, Balanced Approach

Cold, wind, and seasonal changes are all part of horse life — but that doesn’t mean they need to struggle. With thoughtful management and natural herbal support, your horse can stay comfortable, healthy, and thriving through the winter months.

Need help choosing the right herbs for your horse?
We’re just an email or message away — we’re always happy to recommend something tailored to your horse’s individual needs.