These top 5 equine blanketing tips can help whatever your equine blanket situation is, Equine Blanket has you covered with a variety of blankets, sheets, hoods, and covers to keep your horse comfy during the colder months. Here are five tips to consider adding to your tack room when making your winter ” equine-keeping’ plan for your horse. Equestria girls and guys who prepare for winter have happy horses.
Top 5 Equine Blanketing Tips
You might not want to admit it, but your horse might be “judging” you based on what he sees when he looks in that big ole’ mirror when you ride him (or when you walk by the barn). If he sees himself in his new blankets. These tips will help keep you in tip top shape!
Equine blanketing tip #1. The Right Fit
Blankets of any type should always be roomy enough for comfort. If the blanket is too tight, this can cause rubbing and chafing, as well as restrict your horse’s movement. A good fit will also prevent snowballs from forming around your horse’s legs and stomach, and it will allow him to stay dry. This tip is the most important of these top 5 equine blanketing tips.
Equine blanketing tip #2. Clean for the win
Prior to the first use of any blanket, it is recommended that you wash and dry it. This will remove any finishes on the fabric (dyes, chemicals, etc.) as well as allowing for shrinkage. If you are washing a new blanket for the first time, be sure to air dry or low heat in your machine. Never dry clean a blanket! Let us do it for you.
Equine blanketing tip #3. stable sheets
Stable sheets are often overlooked by riders, but they are a great way to help your horse stay clean before his workout or show. Stable sheets are an easy layer under his blankets that you can throw on when he is being tacked up for school time, and even during the competition! If it’s chilly outside , a stable sheet helps keep him warm, and if it’s raining or snowing you can throw a sheet over your horse’s blanket to help keep him dry.
Equine blanketing tip #4. Proper Storage
It is essential that you regularly check your horse’s blankets for signs of wear and tear. Look at the fit of the blanket to make sure it still fits correctly, and make sure there are no holes. Also be sure to check for broken buckles, zipper malfunctions , or straps that need to be replaced.
If you are not properly storing your blankets, they could get damaged or develop mildew. You should never store your blanket in the back of your tack room closet for months on end. A good storage option is an ole’ pillowcase! Just fold up each of your blankets and toss them all in together
Equine blanketing tip #5. When to use your equine blanket
In order to not void your horse’s blanket warranty, you should follow the guidelines from the manufacturer. However, it is a good idea to use your horse’s blanket whenever he may get cold or wet. In that case, if possible turnout time in a shelter would be optimal!
Contact us directly for other helpful tips!