Rainy days don’t have to mean the end of fun for you and your horse!
While it might not always be ideal to ride or work with your horse outdoors during wet weather, there are still plenty of activities you can do together that are both productive and enjoyable. Here are 20 rainy day horse activities that will keep your equine companion mentally and physically stimulated, even when the weather is dreary.
1. Groundwork Training
Groundwork is a fantastic way to bond with your horse while staying dry indoors or under a shelter. Practice leading, lunging, or teaching your horse new tricks. Groundwork helps improve communication between you and your horse and is a great way to reinforce good behavior.
2. Tarp Training
Use a tarp or a large piece of cloth to help desensitize your horse to unusual sensations. This exercise will encourage your horse to walk across or step on the tarp, helping them gain confidence and stay calm in unfamiliar environments.
3. Obstacle Course
Set up an obstacle course indoors or in a sheltered area. Use cones, poles, or other objects to create challenges that encourage your horse to navigate through them. This is a great way to keep them active without needing to go outside.
4. Walking in Hand
If the rain isn’t too heavy, take your horse for a walk in hand. This gives your horse a chance to stretch their legs while you stay dry under an umbrella. Walking in hand also allows you to explore different areas of your property and can be a peaceful bonding activity.
5. Massage and Grooming
Rainy days are the perfect time to give your horse a relaxing massage and grooming session. Spend extra time brushing their coat, checking for injuries, and massaging their muscles. Not only does this help keep your horse clean and comfortable, but it also promotes good circulation and relaxation.
6. Liberty Training
Liberty training involves working with your horse without a halter or lead rope. You can teach your horse to follow you, change direction, or even do tricks like bowing or standing on a pedestal. Liberty work is a great way to build trust and improve communication.
7. Target Training
Use a target stick or a specific object to encourage your horse to touch it with their nose or other body parts. This simple activity can help teach your horse focus, precision, and discipline while strengthening your relationship.
8. Indoor Arena Work
If you have access to an indoor arena, this is the perfect place to practice your riding skills without getting soaked. You can work on your horse’s trot, canter, or even just focus on basic transitions and bending exercises.
9. Clicker Training
Clicker training is a fun way to teach your horse new behaviors using positive reinforcement. Use a clicker and treat system to reward your horse for performing tasks like picking up their feet, following commands, or standing still.
10. Horsey Arts and Crafts
Okay, this one is a little unusual, but some horse owners enjoy making custom tack, like braided halters or colorful mane and tail accessories. You can get creative while you’re stuck indoors and personalize your horse’s gear.
11. Work on Lead Changes
If you have a covered area or indoor arena, work on lead changes with your horse. It’s an essential skill for advanced riders and something that can be improved on rainy days when outdoor riding is limited.
12. Learning New Tricks
Rainy days are an excellent opportunity to teach your horse new tricks, like bowing, lying down, or even simple things like lifting their feet on command. Positive reinforcement and patience will help your horse learn new skills.
13. Paddock Playtime
If your horse is comfortable with being outside in the rain, let them have a bit of freedom to play in the paddock. If you have a covered or partially sheltered area, you can set up some toys or play equipment, such as balls or large rubber cones, for your horse to interact with.
14. Walk the Trail
If you’re lucky enough to have a covered or sheltered trail, take your horse for a walk. Exploring a familiar trail during a rainy day can provide a calming and bonding experience for both of you.
15. Scent Work
Challenge your horse’s nose and brain by setting up scent-based activities. Hide treats or specific smells in various places around the barn or sheltered area and encourage your horse to find them. This can stimulate their mind and provide a fun, mentally enriching activity.
16. Training with New Equipment
Use rainy days to introduce your horse to new equipment, such as a new saddle, bridle, or boots. Allow your horse to get used to the feel of the new gear in a calm, controlled environment, ensuring they are comfortable with the new equipment before you head out in better weather.
17. Cavaletti Work
Cavaletti work involves using poles arranged at different heights and distances to encourage your horse to stretch their legs, engage their muscles, and improve their flexibility. You can set up cavaletti poles inside a barn or a sheltered area to keep your horse active on a rainy day.
18. Hydration and Nutrition Time
Rainy days provide the perfect opportunity to ensure that your horse is hydrated and well-fed. Check your horse’s water intake, provide them with extra hay, and ensure they are receiving a well-balanced diet. This can also be a great time to pamper your horse with some special treats.
19. Socializing with Other Horses
If you have other horses on the property, allow them some time to socialize. They can interact through fencing or in a safe, shared space under shelter. Horses are social creatures, and spending time together can lift their spirits even on gloomy days.
20. Rest and Relaxation
Sometimes, the best activity for both you and your horse is simply resting and relaxing. Rainy days provide the perfect excuse to give both you and your horse a well-deserved break. Make sure your horse is in a comfortable, dry place, and allow them to rest and relax for the day.
Rain doesn’t have to stop you from bonding with your horse or keeping them mentally and physically engaged. With these 20 rainy day activities, you can make the most out of the wet weather while ensuring your horse stays happy, healthy, and stimulated. Whether you’re indoors or under a sheltered area, there are plenty of fun and productive ways to spend quality time with your equine companion, no matter what the weather brings.