Owning a horse or pony is a dream come true for many people. They have often been riding since childhood before being able to afford their own animals. When they are finally able to have their own horses most people want to make the most of every possible moment. They love to ride and groom their horses, go out on trail rides and compete in shows.
There is a rug for every occasion. These range from thick waterproof coverings for the very worst of winter weather, to light weight summer sheets that are used to keep the dust and flies off a show animal. Horse rugs are sold at practically all retail outlets, but it can be just as easy to buy one on line and have it shipped in a day or two.
Price and quality are the two main factors. Typically the cheaper rug will not last so long. This may be fine for an owner who just needs something quick to get them through the last few weeks of winter. However, if the animal is going to be wearing the rug for the whole winter it is worth investing in a really good quality product that will do the job. There is nothing worse than coming home in the dark to find a miserable and wet horse who has been standing around in a damp rug all day long. It can also lead to significant health problems.
It is important to know how to measure a horse for a rug properly. A flexible tape measure in needed and should be placed at the center of the horses chest. Then measure around to the center of the tail. The number of inches is the measurement for the rug. Most are sold in four inch increments. If the horses size is in between it is best to size up. Each brand tends to run either a little big or small and the staff can advise about this.
Some rugs are both wind and water proof. Others are merely water resistant. There is a significant difference between these two terms. It is very important for owners and barn managers to understand that for full weather protection the animal must have a good quality blanket that is guaranteed water proof. The other layer is coated with a special substance that provides full protection.
After exercise horses are typically hot and sweaty. In warm weather the best option is to simply hose them down. This removes sweat and dirt from the skin and helps to keep the animal in the very best condition. However, after their bath most horses love to head to the nearest pile of dirt or shavings and roll vigorously. Covering them with a light sheet and leaving them tied up until they are dry will save a lot of mess.
Shopping for show blankets is not only fun but an essential part of a show animals turnout. Most barns have their own colors and riders want to be part of the team. It not only looks great but helps to create a true sense of team spirit.
To get the best from any rug it requires care and attention. When not in use the rug should be folded and hung on the stable door. During the off season the rug should be machine washed with mild detergent. Line drying is usually recommended and the clean rug should be carefully packed away. Most come with their own strong carrying bag that has a heavy duty zipper. These are perfect for storage as they prevent damage from insects and mice in the barn.
There is a rug for every occasion. These range from thick waterproof coverings for the very worst of winter weather, to light weight summer sheets that are used to keep the dust and flies off a show animal. Horse rugs are sold at practically all retail outlets, but it can be just as easy to buy one on line and have it shipped in a day or two.
Price and quality are the two main factors. Typically the cheaper rug will not last so long. This may be fine for an owner who just needs something quick to get them through the last few weeks of winter. However, if the animal is going to be wearing the rug for the whole winter it is worth investing in a really good quality product that will do the job. There is nothing worse than coming home in the dark to find a miserable and wet horse who has been standing around in a damp rug all day long. It can also lead to significant health problems.
It is important to know how to measure a horse for a rug properly. A flexible tape measure in needed and should be placed at the center of the horses chest. Then measure around to the center of the tail. The number of inches is the measurement for the rug. Most are sold in four inch increments. If the horses size is in between it is best to size up. Each brand tends to run either a little big or small and the staff can advise about this.
Some rugs are both wind and water proof. Others are merely water resistant. There is a significant difference between these two terms. It is very important for owners and barn managers to understand that for full weather protection the animal must have a good quality blanket that is guaranteed water proof. The other layer is coated with a special substance that provides full protection.
After exercise horses are typically hot and sweaty. In warm weather the best option is to simply hose them down. This removes sweat and dirt from the skin and helps to keep the animal in the very best condition. However, after their bath most horses love to head to the nearest pile of dirt or shavings and roll vigorously. Covering them with a light sheet and leaving them tied up until they are dry will save a lot of mess.
Shopping for show blankets is not only fun but an essential part of a show animals turnout. Most barns have their own colors and riders want to be part of the team. It not only looks great but helps to create a true sense of team spirit.
To get the best from any rug it requires care and attention. When not in use the rug should be folded and hung on the stable door. During the off season the rug should be machine washed with mild detergent. Line drying is usually recommended and the clean rug should be carefully packed away. Most come with their own strong carrying bag that has a heavy duty zipper. These are perfect for storage as they prevent damage from insects and mice in the barn.
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