Following yesterday’s post, I thought you might find the following news item from the Country Living Association helpful. It reads as follows:….

When the cold winter weather hits, many horse owners automatically bring out the horse blankets. Many considerations need to be made before making this decision.

A horse’s normal winter coat is much more insulating than a blanket. Unless the horse has been clipped, is outside without a windbreak, or has been moved to a colder climate during winter months, it will usually actually be warmer without a blanket.

The longer winter coat that a horse develops helps to trap the body heat against the skin. Also, tiny muscles in the skin raise the hairs, creating tiny air pockets that heighten the insulating effect. Flattening this “fluffed-up” coat by adding a blanket can actually make the horse colder.

If your veterinarian recommends blanketing a horse, be sure that someone is assigned to remove the blanket as temperatures rise in the afternoon. A horse that is not accustomed to being blanketed is at an increased risk for becoming overheated, which will cause it to sweat. This dampness can cause the horse to be chilled later and increase the risk of pneumonia or other respiratory infections.

Put yourself in your horse’s place when you decide to put on or take off a blanket. If you need a jacket they might also, but if you need yours off, they might too.

Remove the blanket on a regular basis if you choose to use one. Check to make sure your horse is not losing body condition, doesn’t have blanket rubs or injuries, and is not developing a skin problem such as rain rot under the blanket. Be sure to keep the blanket clean, particularly on the inside where it’s in contact with your horse’s skin.

Check to make sure the blanket is waterproof during wet weather. You will be fighting a losing battle trying to keep a wet horse warm with a wet blanket. Place your hand under the blanket around the neck. Your horse should feel nice and warm and not sweaty.

When traveling, consider using a canvas travel cover. Canvas covers should be used in a well ventilated trailer both winter and summer. The canvas cover will shield the body from wind burns and scrapes all at the same time.

Always remember to consult your veterinarian with any questions or concerns.