Types of Horse Rugs
Horses need rugs to keep warm, as there are various kinds available, each serving a different purpose. The most popular rug found in stables is the jute night rug. You can find jute night rugs in two options:
- Half-lined night rug: Also known as a dealer’s rug, this type requires no additional roller to stay in place and is more affordable than fully-lined night rugs. It provides enough warmth to prevent a horse from getting cold. Its name comes from being a popular choice among dealers at horse sales.
- Fully-lined night rug: This rug is commonly used in stables and may come with one or two surcingles, or none at all. If it doesn’t have a surcingle, you’ll need to use a roller to keep it in place.
The durability of the jute night rug depends on the tightness of its weave. However, the highest quality and most expensive rugs are made from flax.
Choosing the Right Horse Rug
Before you select a rug for your horse, consider the following factors:
- Temperature and Climate: Choose a rug based on the local climate and expected temperature variations.
- Horse’s Needs: Some horses require more warmth than others, so consider your horse’s age, breed, and coat thickness when making a decision.
- Rug Material: Consider the rug’s durability and how it suits your horse’s needs. Jute is a common choice, but flax rugs are considered to be the best.
By keeping these factors in mind, you can find the perfect rug to keep your horse warm and comfortable throughout the year.
Horse Rug Sizes
Various Sizes for Different Horses
Horse rugs are designed in a range of sizes to accommodate the needs of all horses, from small ponies to larger breeds. Rug sizes can vary by 3 inches, starting at 4ft 6ins for smaller ponies and going up to 6ft 9ins for bigger horses.
Horse Blankets for Warmth
Traditional Blankets and their Design
Horse blankets are essential for providing warmth and comfort to your horse. Traditional blankets typically feature a beige color with red and black stripes running along each side of the rug. This recognizable pattern has been used for generations, likely to help grooms position the blanket evenly on the horse. Horse blankets come in various sizes and weights, with the heaviest ones weighing around 3.6 kg (8 lbs) and the lightest ones around 1.4 kg (3 lbs).
Cost-Effective Alternatives
Considering the current prices, Army blankets can be a more affordable alternative to traditional horse blankets. These lightweight pure wool blankets cost around £15 (approx. $20) compared to the £70 (approx. $95) price tag of a traditional horse blanket. Army blankets tend to be longer, but they fold back well and can be easily tucked under the roller to secure them in place.
Cooling Options for Horses
Using Anti-Sweat Sheets
If you find your horse feeling hot, an anti-sweat sheet is a useful item to have. These sheets, made from breathable material similar to a string vest, can be placed under a light rug to help dry the horse off.
The Role of Traditional Coolers
In contrast, an old-fashioned cooler, designed with a browband and a fitted neck piece, hangs loosely over the horse allowing for good air circulation. These coolers are typically made of fine wool; however, an Army blanket can be a great DIY option. Given the length and soft material of an Army blanket, it’s easy to shape into a cooler, making it a cost-effective solution for your horse’s comfort.
The Appeal of Day Rugs
Aesthetic and Practical Advantages
Day rugs are known for their attractive colors and contrasting bindings which are sure to make your horse stand out. Besides being visually appealing, high-end day rugs are made from livery cloth – a material so sturdy and tightly woven that it’s tough for any wind to get through.
Evolution of Day Rug Materials
In recent times, there’s been a trend towards using lighter, more breathable cloth for day rugs. Yet, it’s important to remember that these rugs can vary widely in their insulation ability. Some summer showsheets, despite being lightweight, may not offer enough warmth to keep your horse comfortable in the chillier winter months. Always consider the appropriateness of the rug for the season when making your selection.
The Essential Summer Sheets
What are Summer Sheets?
Summer sheets, often crafted from cotton or linen, are special types of horse rugs designed for use during the hot summer months.
The Function of Summer Sheets
Originally referred to as fly sheets, these rugs have a very fitting name. That’s because, beyond offering a light cover to keep your horse comfortable in the heat, they serve a second, equally important function – They provide a protective barrier that keeps pesky flies from settling on stabled horses and causing discomfort. Therefore, a good quality summer sheet is not only useful for maintaining your horse’s comfort but also a great tool for safeguarding its well-being during the warmer months.
Importance of Rollers for Horse Rugs
Role and Types of Rollers
Horse rug rollers are an essential tool used to secure your horse’s rugs in place, reducing the slip and shift. These rollers can be crafted from sturdy materials like leather or webbing, with a variety of designs available to suit different needs.
Versatile Anti-Cast Rollers
One particularly useful design is the small anti-cast roller that comes with straps on both sides. This design allows for the use of any length of girth, making the roller adaptable for different horse sizes, from a petite pony to a large hunter.
Enhancing Roller Security with Breast Girths
For a horse that might lack a pronounced rib cage – and therefore present more difficulty in keeping a roller securely in place – attaching a breast girth to any roller can aid in holding it steadily in position. This accessory adds an extra layer of security, ensuring that your horse’s comfort and wellbeing aren’t compromised.
Essential Stable Equipment: Bandages
The Importance of Bandages
No matter how small the stable, bandages are a necessary piece of horse care equipment. In the case of illness, woollen bandages can be used to keep the horse’s extremities warm; they can also help prevent issues like cracked heels during the cold winter months. Moreover, they’re commonly used over Gamgee—a type of absorbent padding—for safe and comfortable travelling.
Various Types of Bandages
Bandages come in several types. Stable bandages, often grey in colour, are typically made from light material while their coloured counterparts are usually thicker. You can also find stockinette bandages, linen bandages, and elastic tail bandages. The diversity in styles and colours means there’s a bandage for every need and preference.
Recommendations for Safe Use
In my view, it’s important to use all leg bandages over materials like Gamgee or cotton wool. This practice helps ensure that the bandage isn’t applied too tightly, which could potentially interfere with the horse’s circulation. This way, your horse stays comfortable and safe while enjoying the benefits that bandages bring.
Tail-Guards for Horse Protection
Types of Tail-Guards
Tail-guards are specifically designed to protect a horse’s tail when travelling or while in the stable. They can be made from various materials, such as leather or rugging and jute, and come in a variety of designs, from simple to elaborate.
The Purpose of Tail-Guards
When travelling, a tail-guard is used to safeguard the tail if the horse sits back to balance itself. This helps to prevent any potential damage or injury to the tail. Additionally, tail-guards can be used in the stable when a horse has a habit of rubbing its tail. Although rubbing could indicate the presence of worms, some horses continue to do it even when there are no worms causing irritation. In such cases, a tail-guard helps protect the tail from injury due to excessive rubbing.
Protecting Your Horse with Knee-Caps
The Role of Knee-Caps
Knee-caps (knee boots, knee pads) in the equestrian world serve as protective gear for the knees of show horses, whether they’re travelling or exercising on the road. They’re a preventative measure to safeguard your valuable equine companion from potential risks.
Different Types of Knee-Caps
There’s a wide variety of knee-caps available in the market, constructed from materials such as leather, rugging, or jute. While leather knee-caps might initially be more expensive, they tend to last longer and provide robust protection, making them a cost-effective choice in the long run.
Personal Preference: Skeleton Knee-Pads/Boots
In my experience, the very light variety known as skeleton knee-pads has been an excellent choice. These are versatile and can be used for both travelling and exercising purposes, offering great convenience and ease of use while ensuring your horse’s knees stay protected.
Frequently Asked Questions about Horse Clothing
Q: What is a horse blanket and why is it necessary?
A: A horse blanket, also referred to as a rug, is a type of covering designed to protect a horse from cold weather, wind, and rain. It’s similar to a jacket or coat that we would wear. This is particularly beneficial for horses that are stabled and aren’t accustomed to extreme weather conditions, helping to regulate their body temperature and ensure their overall comfort.
Q: How do I choose the right size blanket for my horse?
A: Choosing the right size blanket for your horse is crucial to ensure their comfort. You can find the correct size by measuring them. Start from the center of the horse’s chest to the center of the tail. This measurement, in inches, is generally the size of the blanket you need. Remember that it’s better to choose a size a little too big than too small to avoid causing any discomfort.
Q: What different types of horse clothing are available?
A: Beyond blankets, there are several types of horse clothing. These include coolers (used to help a horse dry out after a workout by wicking away sweat), fly sheets (lightweight covers that provide protection against insects), and exercise sheets (worn during work to help keep the horse warm or dry). The choice largely depends on the horse’s specific needs or the weather conditions.
Q: How often should I clean my horse’s clothing?
A: The frequency at which you should clean your horse’s clothing greatly depends on usage. Generally, it’s a good idea to wash horse clothing, such as blankets or sheets, at the end of the season before storing them away. However, if they get particularly dirty or soiled, they should be cleaned immediately to ensure the comfort and health of your horse.
Q: Are horse clothes necessary for all horses?
A: The need for horse clothing varies depending on several factors such as the climate, the horse’s age, breed, and overall health. For instance, older or shaved/thin-coated horses may need extra layering for warmth. On the other hand, horses with thick coats may not need as much protective clothing. Always consult with your vet or an equine expert when in doubt.
Q: How do I know if my horse is comfortable in its clothes?
A: Signs that your horse is comfortable in its attire include the horse behaving normally without signs of distress, and the clothing not leaving any marks or abrasions on the horse’s skin. Regular checks are vital, especially after introducing new clothing, to ensure there’s no rubbing, constriction, or other potential issues.
Q: Can my horse wear his clothing all the time?
A: It’s generally not recommended for a horse to wear clothing continuously, as it might lead to discomfort or skin problems. There should be intervals when the horse is without clothing to allow the skin and coat to breathe, except for cases of severe weather or specific health issues which might require continuous wear. It’s best to consult with a vet or equine expert for advice tailored to your horse’s unique circumstances.
Q: Should my horse wear clothes in the summer?
A: During the summer, horses might benefit from certain types of clothing like fly sheets to protect them from insects. Light-coloured coverings may also reflect sunlight and keep the horse cooler. It’s essential to make sure any clothing use in the summer is breathable and lightweight to prevent overheating.
Q: Is there specific clothing for horse shows or competitions?
A: Yes, horses often wear specific clothing at shows or competitions, like show sheets or coolers. These garments are typically made of nicer materials and include the stall or team colours and logos. Rules regarding horse dressing at competitions can vary, so it’s advisable to check the guidelines of the specific event you are attending.
