Horse Blankets – How to Pick Them

Articles on Horses | Topics: horses, horse, equestrian

by Kendall York

Horse Blankets – How to Pick Them

There is a lot to know when it comes to choosing blankets for horses. When doing so keep in mind that horses are considerably different in many ways.

The most obvious way that a horse is different is in the size and build. You should measure your horse so that you can find a blanket that would be large enough for him or her. The other aspect of choosing a blanket for a horse to consider is that horses can withstand colder temperatures than humans. Therefore, in most cases, a horse does not need a blanket at all.

There are situations in when a horse does need a blanket, however. For instance, a horse whose hair has been clipped usually needs a blanket because horses with clipped hair stay less warm than those with quite a bit of hair. Furthermore, thoroughbred horses in particular, have long hair that is not effective for keeping a horse warm. Even though this breed has long hair, a blanket would still help keep this horse warm. Newborns and horses up to one year old are also intolerant to the cold and require the use of a blanket. In addition, mares in the late stage of pregnancy are also unable to handle the cold very well and need a blanket.

When choosing a blanket for your horse, make sure that it is well fitted and secure. The blanket should be designed with a wind resistant top layer. Along with that, the girths of the blanket should not be left dangling. In order to accomplish the need to have a wind resistant covering for your horse, you can purchase turnout rugs to apply over the top of the blanket. These are found at many well-known supermarkets. The most important thing to remember is to make sure that the blanket is warm enough, because a blanket that is not warm enough will be no more effective than not having a blanket for your horse. In fact, inadequate covering can sometimes be worse than no covering at all.

For varying weather conditions, it is usually best to have a series of progressively warm blanket layers in order for easy blanket temperature adjustment. This is the best way to be able to add and remove warmth in accordance to the temperature changes. This is especially true in states such as Wisconsin where the weather changes quite a bit within one day sometimes.

In order to check your horse's body temperature, first make sure your own hands are not frozen or severely cold. Then, with your warmed hands, feel your horse's ears. If they feel very cold, then make sure that you move the horse into warmer shelter or provide the horse with the proper warmth of a blanket. This is the best way to make sure that your horse does not freeze.

Historical Quote

the white-crested fillies of the surge
And the white horses of the windy plain.

—Roy Campbell (1902–1957)

One of the best materials to use in order to keep a horse warm is wool. This helps let moisture of the horse escape while keeping the heat of a horse inside. Other ways to keep a horse cool besides blanketing your horse is to make sure that you place your horse in a secure shelter that is as well insulated as possible, yet still roomy enough for your horse to breathe.

In case you are wondering when exactly to apply blankets to a horse or how warm to make the horse's living quarters, consider the severity of the weather outside. Remember that horses generally can withstand colder temperatures than humans. Therefore, it is best to wait until the temperature hits below 30 to 40 degrees before considering using a blanket on your horse. Also remember to consider the age and condition of your horse. Larger horses are known to withstand colder temperatures than smaller horses and younger horses.

The length of time that a blanket or series of blankets need to be applied depends upon the duration of the severe cold weather as well. Make sure that you pay attention to weather reports and adjust the temperature of the horse's shelter and coverings as often as necessary. Usually once every day or two, depending on the climate of the area in which the horse lives would be sufficient.

If you know how to choose a blanket for your horse and how to make sure that the horse has adequate blanket covering you can preserve the health of your horse. Likewise, your horse will live longer as well. Make sure you find the right blanket (or blankets) for your particular horse. More information on how to choose a blanket for your horse can usually be found for free if you search with the words "horse blankets" or similar phrase.

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Please note: All personal opinions expressed in the "Horse Blankets – How to Pick Them" article belong to the contributing author and are not necessarily shared by DogsPetsCats.com.

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