Just like people horses need comfort too. They need somewhere to sit that makes them feel comfortable and something warm in their stable. This is why it is important to choose the right horse rugs to suit your horse.
The first thing you do is to ensure that the rug is the right size for your horse. In order to do this you have to measure carefully and accurately. You need to measure from the centre of the chest and then along the side of the animal. This will then give you the idea of the appropriate size.
When you are checking the size you should do so without removing the tags or packaging and carefully place it over the horse like you would a duvet over a bed. This may seem strange but there is an important reason for doing this. In simple terms it means that if it does not fit you can take the product back in its original condition and packaging without any problems. If you open it there is always the risk of it being stained when it is placed around the animal.
Each rug comes in a set size. They tend to come in three inch increments. Therefore you have to decide whether or not you want to add a little extra material in order to make them a bit more comfortable or not. Ultimately this depends on the animal as some may prefer more material and others may not.
There are three main types. The standard covers the back, hind quarters and shoulders. However it does not tend to cover much of the neck area itself. This means that it is better for horses that have not had their neck hair trimmed or if they are not particularly sensitive to cold.
Half necks stop rain getting under the rug and provide extra warmth. A full neck is best for horses who are particularly sensitive to cold or in the very cold winter months when additional cover is required. The additional benefit of the full neck is that it makes it easier to clean the horse as they do not get mud on their neck. It is also worth checking to see how breathable the material is so that any water evaporates. This is especially useful during the summer months when they could end up sweating more during a gallop.
Fill is also an issue. A lighter weighted rug is best suited to younger horses and those that are less sensitive to cold. A more sensitive or older animal is more likely to need a heavier weighted one. It may also be worth having one for the summer as well as the winter so you can always have something appropriate for your horse.
You can order rugs for your horse from specialist stores and websites. If your budget is tight then you may want to look for private sellers offering second hand items. It is recommended that you check and compare a number of sources in order to get the best products in your price range. You should also check online for feedback and advice from other riders and owners in order to get the right rug for your horse.
The first thing you do is to ensure that the rug is the right size for your horse. In order to do this you have to measure carefully and accurately. You need to measure from the centre of the chest and then along the side of the animal. This will then give you the idea of the appropriate size.
When you are checking the size you should do so without removing the tags or packaging and carefully place it over the horse like you would a duvet over a bed. This may seem strange but there is an important reason for doing this. In simple terms it means that if it does not fit you can take the product back in its original condition and packaging without any problems. If you open it there is always the risk of it being stained when it is placed around the animal.
Each rug comes in a set size. They tend to come in three inch increments. Therefore you have to decide whether or not you want to add a little extra material in order to make them a bit more comfortable or not. Ultimately this depends on the animal as some may prefer more material and others may not.
There are three main types. The standard covers the back, hind quarters and shoulders. However it does not tend to cover much of the neck area itself. This means that it is better for horses that have not had their neck hair trimmed or if they are not particularly sensitive to cold.
Half necks stop rain getting under the rug and provide extra warmth. A full neck is best for horses who are particularly sensitive to cold or in the very cold winter months when additional cover is required. The additional benefit of the full neck is that it makes it easier to clean the horse as they do not get mud on their neck. It is also worth checking to see how breathable the material is so that any water evaporates. This is especially useful during the summer months when they could end up sweating more during a gallop.
Fill is also an issue. A lighter weighted rug is best suited to younger horses and those that are less sensitive to cold. A more sensitive or older animal is more likely to need a heavier weighted one. It may also be worth having one for the summer as well as the winter so you can always have something appropriate for your horse.
You can order rugs for your horse from specialist stores and websites. If your budget is tight then you may want to look for private sellers offering second hand items. It is recommended that you check and compare a number of sources in order to get the best products in your price range. You should also check online for feedback and advice from other riders and owners in order to get the right rug for your horse.
