The cost and care of a horse is an an emotional investment as well as a financial one. When a steed succumbs to illnesses that are associated with exposure to environmental conditions, one cannot help but be affected. Many owners fail to take into consideration the fact that animals are as sensitive to weather as humans are and can even develop colds and other conditions which can become life threatening. With huge gains in knowledge in veterinary medicine, one factor that has come to light is the needs to provide horse rugs especially when weather conditions are extreme or they are under stress.
For those who show their animals at events, clipping is often done in order to give a smooth, sleek appearance that shows off the animal's muscle tone and beauty. Without this hair, however, they become very sensitive to environmental conditions many owners take for granted. The sun can burn delicate skin and, in winter, they may become chilled leading to colds and flu like symptoms.
Today's horse blankets have revolutionary designs that ensure the protection of these valuable animals even under the harshest of conditions. Coming in a variety of fabrics, weights, sizes, styles, and colors, the purposes they serve are many. Perfect for hot, summer weather are the lightweight rugs which provide protection against the harsh rays of the sun while allowing adequate air flow to keep the animals cool and comfortable.
A new use for the lighter weight covers are to protect during cool-downs after heavy workouts. Just as with people if, after a marathon, a runner were to just stop and stand they would succumb to the sudden cessation of stressors the body had been under over a prolonged period of time. This can result in cramping, nausea, and sudden changes in blood pressure that put stress on the heart. During the cool down covering an animal with a lightweight blanket and walking slowly until blood pressure and heart rate return to normal will ensure a safe recovery.
The needs of the horse often depend on the daily environmental conditions in which they live. The needs of those from Alaska, for instance, would be much different that what might be required in New Zealand or South Africa. Yet horses are found throughout the world and taking proper care of them is an owners number one priority. In rainy areas, a blanket which is waterproof would be better than one made of lightweight fabric. In extremely cold areas one might require something heavier that may even be lined such as wool or waxed cotton.
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.
Whether one owns a full-sized horse or a pony, the needs are the same, and the working relationship with the owner, as well as environmental conditions, need to be taken into consideration when researching horse rugs. There are many on the market today, but regardless of where one lives, it's size and shape, or it's workout routine the proper equipment should always be selected with the individual horse's needs in mind.
Jay Davidson is a specialist as regards horse rugs. To learn all the stuff about stable rugs - check out the web presence at --- Equestrian Supplies Shop UK
