Selecting The Proper Horse Rugs

By Katrina Wheeler


Protecting the ones we love is very important. When the ones we love are horses we must consider the best options for protection. They often need assistance to stay dry, warm up and cool down. Horse rugs provide additional assistance when weather conditions become extreme.

You might wonder how you would keep a rug or blanket on an animal that is so large and active. Most blankets have straps and clips to attach around the chest, under the belly and additional straps that go around and between the hind legs for additional security. They come in several different sizes, colors and weights. The heavier weighted covers, are for use during the winter months when the weather is very cold. Lighter weight sheets are for the spring and summer months, many times to protect them from irritating insects.

Most blankets or rugs are used during the winter months to keep animals warm on exceptionally cold days. They provide extra warmth and often are water proof to prevent the animal from becoming damp from rain or snow. Many have additional snaps to attach a neck cover for even more protection.

There are many different types and styles of rugs and blankets to choose from. There can also be a difference in the weight of the fabrics used for this protection. There are stable, turnout, fly, water proof and cooling blankets as well as anti-sweat sheets. Each has a very distinctive use.

During the winter, when your animal is out to pasture, a turnout cover is an excellent option. Choose one that is rated based on the weather conditions appropriate for your climate. During the summer months many people choose to use fly sheets for protection against pesky flies. After an intense workout, you might choose to use a cooling blanket to assist in cooling the core temperature of your animal until it reaches the appropriate level. There are blankets and rugs for many different purposes.

It is imperative that your animal be dry before placing a blanket on him. Blanketing him while he is wet can cause him to become ill. Dry him with an anti-sweat sheet before blanketing. It will remove any remaining water. Once he is dry, he may be blanketed. Remember that moisture can be held in by a blanket that is placed on a damp horse, which can cause serious health problems for him.

Allow your animals natural coat to grow. During the fall months as the weather changes, allow him to be exposed to the cooler fall air. This will encourage his winter coat to begin to grow. If you place blankets on him too early in the season, it will prevent his coat from growing. If his coat is short and think, he will need to wear his jacket until the warmer season begins.

Horse rugs are the perfect accoutrement for extreme weather conditions. Providing exceptional care for your equestrian friend is a top priority. Determine what size, type and weight will best fit your animals needs. Regardless of whether it is summer, spring, winter or fall there is a rug for every occasion. There is one additional benefit as well. They will look adorable wearing their winter jackets.




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