Horses are an investment that can become costly over time if care is not taken. Although many leave their animals exposed to the elements all year long, they, just like humans, can in fact become susceptible to conditions such as colds and other maladies that can result in death. In response to their needs, many manufacturers now use horse rugs to ensure the comfort of steeds that vary to accommodate various forms of inclement weather.

Show horses are often clipped and the reasoning is sound. When seeing a prancing mare or stallion who has been clipped enter the ring, one is immediately drawn to the flexing muscles, striding gait, and luster of the hair as they are paraded before a crowd of onlookers. Many even win aware for this single factor. However, by removing hair that is designed to protect skin which is much more delicate than that of humans, exposure to the sun can cause serious burns and cold weather can sink deep into muscles leaving them shivering for hours which result in colds and fever that is often hard to overcome.

Today there are many products designed to protect horses regardless of the conditions. One of the most popular is horse blankets which come in a wide variety of sizes, styles, and weights in order to serve many purposes. Lightweight rugs, for example, are perfect for the summer weather in that they are designed to protect against the penetrating rays of the sun while allowing cooler breezes to keep livestock cool.

For those with horses who have hard workouts and training schedules, these blankets also provide much needed protection from losing body heat too rapidly during cool down periods. Just as with humans, to suddenly stop an activity without a cool down period can result in a variety of ailments such as cramping and wooziness caused by rapidly changing blood pressure that can put stress on the heart muscle. By covering a horse with a lightweight blanket during the cool down period ensures that return to normal body functioning is done in a controlled and safe manner.

The products these rugs are made of vary widely depending on the conditions in which the animal will be found. For instance, some are light in weight, but waterproof for areas which are frequented by heavy rains, but are less cool seasonally. Others are made of waxed cotton, canvas, or wool to protect against extremely cold winter temperatures. These are usually made with a supple lining so as not to cause sores.

Not only are the environmental conditions important, but so is ensuring a proper fit. These rugs are often made in three inch increments so finding the right fit may take some work. It’s important to fit completely around the belly in order to provide maximum protection, but should also fit from the chest to tail without being snug because it’s too small or slipping because it’s too large. They should feel free to bend while eating grass and run freely when the spirit strikes them.

Regardless of whether a horse or pony is clipped or unclipped, stabled or pastured, shown or used for pleasure, there are horse rugs that will provide the protection needed in any weather. If one takes this into consideration, as well as the use, condition and size of the animal, it is easy to ensure they are treated with as much care as any other member of the family.

Dwayne Pierce is a specialist if you want more information on horse rugs. To find out almost everything when it comes to equestrian rugs … check out the internet site at — Equestrian Supplies Shop UK

Tags: Horses