It is vital to keep your horse, warm, dry and clean and to do this effectively throughout the year you will almost certainly require more than one rug. A stable rug lacks a waterproof layer and so is not suitable for use outdoors. Turnout rugs are breathable, insulating and water resistant but should not be used in the stable as they could be damp from their time outside. Using your turnout rug in the stable will also mean that you will not have the opportunity to clean and dry it between uses.

So you need a turnout rug as well as a stable rug and to cope with the different seasons you may even need more than one as different levels of insulation may be required. It is vital to choose the right rug for both your horse and the weather and there are several factors to consider.

Quality

Turnout rugs are fashioned from highly durable and robust synthetic fabrics which do not easily tear. The latest fabric technologies have produced rugs which will stand up to the rigours of even the most active horse. Nonetheless the quality of rugs does vary and you may find that you get what you pay for. A more costly rug could prove to be a wiser investment for the long term as it will be better constructed and therefore last longer.

Fill

You must also consider the level of insulation provided. Horses vary in their ability to keep warm and the different seasons of the year may force you to invest in more than one rug. Rugs are available in light, medium and heavy fills to suit different animals and the varying weather conditions. It is important that horses do not get too hot as well as too cold so observe your animal and how they cope with the conditions. Finding the correct rugs may be a matter of trial and error.

Style

Rugs are available in different styles. Standard rugs offer no protection for the neck whilst combo rugs feature an integral neck cover. This can sometimes be rolled back but for maximum flexibility a detachable neck cover is the best option.

Size

Your chosen rug must be the right size for your horse. The horse should be able to move freely and so the rug should not be too tight. On the other hand a rug which is too loose will not provide good insulation and could slip. The rug should extend to the top of the tail and no further. To ascertain the right size, measure your horse from the centre of its chest along its side to the tail. If your horse is between the available sizes then go up rather than down a size.

Turnout rugs are a significant investment and so it is best to take the time to find the perfect choice for you and your horse. There is a fine range of rugs to choose from and if you consider quality, style, fill and size you will find a great rug that will serve you well.

Article by Sally Stacey