From Summer Grazing to Winter Grazing: The Realities of Livestock Care in the Snow

From Summer Grazing to Winter Grazing: The Realities of Livestock Care in the Snow If you think owning livestock is all pastoral vibes and Instagram-worthy sunsets, let me stop you right there. Sure, summer with large animals feels idyllic—lush pastures, gentle breezes, and feeding schedules that don’t leave you frostbitten. But winter? Winter is a whole other beast, and one we’ve learned to wrestle with (sometimes literally) as we care for our growing herd. From frozen water buckets to horses with a very particular opinion on blanket weights, winter livestock care is a mix of chaos, cold, and learning as you go. Let’s dive into what it really takes to keep everyone happy, healthy, and warm during the winter months—while trying not to lose your sanity (or your fingers to frostbite). One of the biggest adjustments in winter is managing the horses’ wardrobe. Yes, wardrobe. Each horse has a carefully chosen blanket, and swapping them out is practically an Olympic event. Too heavy, and they’ll sweat. Too light, and they’ll give you that look—the one that says, “Really? This is what I’m supposed to survive in?” Finding the perfect balance is an art, not a science. And then there’s the bedding. In the summer, you’re throwing down just enough to keep things comfy. But winter? Winter demands extra layers of bedding, because the cold ground isn’t exactly kind on their joints—or their moods. Let’s just say, when the wind is howling and you’re knee-deep in sawdust, you start to wonder why you didn’t stick to houseplants. If there’s one animal that keeps us on our toes all year round, it’s Vlad. He’s currently on a weight gain diet, which means three meals a day—slowly consumed, of course. In the summer, feeding is quick and painless, but winter feeding Vlad? That’s a whole event. Picture this: it’s -20°C, you’re wearing five layers of thermal gear, and you’re holding a bucket of food while Vlad chews with the urgency of a sloth on vacation. And don’t you dare be late. If you’re even five minutes behind schedule, you’ll be greeted with a face over your head, ears pinned back, and an air of discontent that makes you question every life choice you’ve ever made. While the horses and Vlad endure the cold with some grumbling, our goat has declared herself strictly a fair-weather lady. The moment snowflakes hit the ground, she’s over it. Her disdain for winter is palpable, and honestly, I can’t blame her. Then there’s the water situation. Frozen water buckets are the bane of every livestock owner’s existence. In the summer, hydration is easy and carefree. In the winter, you’re smashing ice, hauling heated buckets, and questioning how water can freeze so fast when your toes are already numb. Winter changes everything, even the animals’ personalities. Gone are the playful antics of summer; winter brings a slower, more subdued energy. And really, who can blame them? When you’re trudging through snow and enduring biting winds, playing tag with your pasture mates loses its appeal. And let’s not forget the humans in this equation. Before stepping outside, you’re bundling up in thermal underwear, socks, and every piece of winter gear you own, only to brave the cold for chores that must be done regardless of the weather. It’s a lesson we learned quickly during our first snowfall: winter doesn’t care if you’re tired, cold, or dreaming of a beach vacation. The animals need you, and the chores go on. If there’s one thing we’ve gained from winter livestock care, it’s a new level of respect for the cold and the animals that endure it. It’s not glamorous, it’s not easy, but it’s deeply rewarding in ways that only make sense when you’re out there in the middle of a snowstorm, breaking ice and making sure everyone is fed and warm. And while we may grumble about the freezing temperatures and endless chores, there’s a certain beauty in the routine. The quiet moments with the horses, the goat’s side-eye as she refuses to leave her shelter, and yes, even Vlad’s slow, deliberate eating—it’s all part of the life we’ve chosen. Here’s to winter, thermal socks, and the animals that keep us moving, even when the snow makes us question everything. Stay tuned for more behind-the-scenes chaos and laughs as we navigate the wild world of livestock care. And don’t forget to check out our YouTube channel for the real (and often ridiculous) footage of life on the farm. Trust me, it’s worth it.