Planning Ahead for a Healthy Season February Tips for Equine Preventive Care
February may feel like a slower month around the barn, but in North Central Texas, it is one of the most valuable times to plan ahead for your horse’s health. With warmer temperatures and early parasite activity, preventive care often starts sooner than many owners expect. Taking a proactive approach now helps support comfort, performance, and long-term soundness as spring approaches.
Whether your horse is in active training, competition, or enjoying a quieter lifestyle, February offers the opportunity to prepare thoughtfully with support from our veterinarian.
Why February Matters for Equine Preventive Care in North Central Texas
Unlike colder regions, horses in North Central Texas do not get a long break from insects, parasites, or environmental stressors. Waiting until spring can mean missing early warning signs or scrambling to fit appointments into an already busy season.
Planning preventive care in February allows time to:
- Address subtle soreness before training intensity increases
- Prepare for early parasite pressure in warm climates
- Schedule care before spring calendars fill quickly
This early planning helps reduce stress for both horses and owners.
Equine Wellness Exams Support Performance and Comfort
An equine wellness exam is more than a routine checkup. It is a chance to evaluate how your horse is moving, feeling, and responding to their workload. February is an ideal time for these exams while horses are still transitioning toward increased activity.
During a wellness exam, our veterinarian may:
- Evaluate body condition and muscle development
- Assess joints, spine, and overall movement
- Identify early stiffness or imbalance
- Review preventive care plans for the year ahead
These exams provide valuable insight, especially for performance horses that rely on consistent comfort and balance.
Sports Medicine for Horses in Training or Competition
Performance horses place repeated demands on their muscles and joints. Even small changes can affect stride, willingness to work, and overall results.
Sports medicine evaluations help:
- Identify areas of soreness or strain
- Support recovery from intense training
- Improve movement efficiency
- Reduce the risk of overuse injuries
Addressing these concerns in February allows time to correct issues before they interfere with training or competition schedules.
Chiropractic Care to Improve Movement and Flexibility
Chiropractic care plays an important role in preventive care for many horses, especially those in regular work. Restrictions in joint motion can develop quietly and progress over time.
Our veterinarian provides chiropractic care to help:
- Restore normal joint movement
- Improve flexibility and balance
- Support comfort under saddle
- Enhance overall performance
When used as part of a preventive plan, chiropractic care can help horses move more freely as their workload increases.
Acupressure as Part of a Balanced Preventive Plan
Acupressure is a gentle, hands-on therapy that supports the body’s natural balance. It can be especially helpful during seasonal transitions or periods of increased training.
Acupressure may help:
- Reduce muscle tension
- Encourage relaxation
- Support recovery after work
- Promote overall wellness
This therapy works well alongside sports medicine and chiropractic care, creating a well-rounded approach to preventive health.
Parasite Control Starts Earlier in Warm Climates
Because winters are mild in North Central Texas, parasite control should begin earlier than in colder areas. February is an excellent time to review your horse’s parasite management plan.
Our veterinarian can help:
- Determine appropriate fecal testing
- Adjust deworming schedules based on risk
- Avoid unnecessary treatments
Targeted parasite control protects your horse while supporting long-term effectiveness.
Vaccination Planning Before Insect Season
Vaccinations are another key part of preventive care, especially before mosquito populations increase. Planning ahead helps ensure protection is in place when it is needed most.
February is a good time to:
- Review core and risk-based vaccines
- Prepare horses that travel or compete
- Coordinate vaccines with other preventive services
A Healthy Season Starts With a Plan
A successful spring does not happen by accident. It starts with thoughtful planning, clear communication, and preventive care tailored to your horse and your region. February gives horse owners in North Central Texas the opportunity to stay ahead rather than catch up. If you are ready to plan for the months ahead, reach out to Shalako K Veterinary Medicine at (214) 551-5334 to schedule a wellness visit or discuss your horse’s preventive care needs. Our veterinarian is here to help your horse step into the new season feeling comfortable, strong, and supported.
