As the seasons change, so do your horse’s needs. Just like we swap our clothes to match the weather climate, horses can also feel the shifts in temperature and may require additional protection. The right blanket can make all the difference for your horse’s comfort and overall well-being. But how do you choose the ideal one for every season? Here are some useful tips for first-time horse owners that will help you choose the right blanket for your equine companion and ensure it stays comfortable, protected, and happy throughout the whole year.
Explore Different Horse Blanket Types
When looking for the right blanket for your horse’s needs, you should explore different types suitable for each season. For example, you can opt for a turnout horse blanket for a horse that spends a lot of time outside and may require additional protection from the elements during the colder months of the year. This type of blanket is usually made from waterproof fabrics such as nylon, polyester, or ripstop and features a durable outer shell that can keep your horse warm and dry.
In addition to the other shell, this blanket also features an inner layer that is filled with materials like polyester or fleece, which contribute to its unique design. The turnout blankets for horses are appropriate for different weather, such as rainy days, windy conditions, and cold temperatures. You can find them in various sizes and thickness levels that will allow you to choose the ideal match for your horse’s needs. For example, you can opt for a medium turnout blanket for a horse that lives in a region with a moderate climate, with occasional rains and chilly nights.
Compared to these designs, the stable blankets and sheets are mostly designed for indoor use. For example, if you tend to keep your horse stabled during the colder months of the year, you should opt for this kind of blanket. The stable blankets are less heavy than the turnout designs and are mostly used to provide mild protection against cold, dust, and bugs. They are usually made from more lightweight fabrics such as durable ripstop and polyester, that are less insulated and provide only mild protection against the elements.
In addition to these two, you may as well consider the flysheet horse blanket design. This type of horse blanket is mostly suitable for summer as it’s crafted from breathable and lightweight fabrics such as woven mesh or lightweight polyester. The flysheet blankets are mostly designed for sensitive horses susceptible to insects, sun exposure, or irritation. They feature a layer of protection that can protect your horse against insects and harmful UV rays during the hot summer months. This will allow your horse to enjoy grazing in peace without experiencing any discomfort.
Consider the Climate of the Area Where you Live
You can find horse blankets in a wide range of designs and styles suitable for different weather changes. To ensure you select the right one, consider the climate of the area where you live and your horse’s needs. For example, if you live in colder places like Canada or Northern Europe, you should opt for a turnout horse blanket for a horse that provides optimal protection against harsh weather conditions.
If on the other hand you live in an area with a warmer climate such as Southern California or parts of Spain, you should choose a lighter blanket design such as a flysheet. In addition to choosing the right blanket for the climate, you should make sure the blanket is suitable for your horse’s breed. For example, a Thoroughbred may require a different level of insulation than the draft horse. This usually depends on the thickness of their coats and the overall sensitivity to temperature changes associated with different weather conditions.
Chose the Right Blanket for Your Horse’s Breed and Size
In addition to choosing the right type for the climate, you should select the right size suitable for your horse’s size. For example, if you are an owner of a large breed like a draft horse, you may need a blanket in a bigger size that provides optimal coverage and comfort for your equine friend. If on the other hand, you own a small pony you may opt for a medium-sized blanket that is specifically designed to fit your horse’s small body and provides the right protection.
To ensure you select the right size, you should measure your horse’s length, girth and neck accurately and choose designs that match those dimensions. If you are shopping for a horse blanket online, pay attention to the size charts provided by the brand you are interested in shopping from. You may as well consider reading customer reviews and recommendations of people who purchased from it, which can help you gain better insight into the brand’s quality and the overall satisfaction of its customers.
By considering each of these aspects, you can learn more about the different blanket types for horses and their unique features. This will allow you to make a more informed purchase and choose the right size that perfectly suits your horse’s needs and body.
