The summer, renowned for its sweltering heat, can become a genuine cause for concern for horse owners. Horses, like other animals and humans, find the scorching summer sun quite overwhelming. This season brings with it not just uncomfortable heat but also annoying insects and potential sunburn. Hence, it becomes significantly important to ensure that your horse is well-protected and comfortable, and this is where summer horse rugs become a lifesaver.
Horse rugs form an integral part of a horse’s summer care regime, and familiarising with the several aspects of using these rugs is crucial for horse owners. This ultimate guide is tailor-made for you, addressing all the dire questions and concerns you may have about summer horse rugs.
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Understanding Horse Rugs
So, what are these summer horse rugs, and why are they so critical for your horse during the hot months? Essentially, horse rugs serve as protective clothing for horses. Made from a range of materials, these rugs are designed to counter several climate and environmental challenges that a horse may face. Contrary to what one might think, rugs are not just for winter. They become even more important during summers, owing to multiple reasons.
Summer horse rugs are constructed thoughtfully, bearing in mind the problems that summer brings along. They are layered and porous, allowing ample breathability and ensuring that they do not trap heat. Moreover, quality rugs come with UV protection and robust components, ensuring durability in the face of intense sun exposure.
Why Do Horses Need Rugs during Summer?
The main reason for using horse rugs in summer is to protect horses from harmful UV rays, which can cause sunburn, particularly in horses with light coats. Additionally, the summer heat can take a toll on the horse’s health by causing overheating and dehydration. A well-ventilated horse rug can prevent this overexposure to heat, keeping your horse cool and comfortable.
Another major reason is the problem of insects. Summers bring along a host of flying insects which can cause nuisance to your horse. Horse rugs serve as an excellent deterrent to these pests, ensuring that your horse is not bitten or bothered.
Types of Summer Horse Rugs
Your choice of a summer horse rug will depend on your specific needs and circumstances. If your horse spends most of its time in the field, you will need a lightweight turnout rug. These rugs are typically made from a sturdy, lightweight fabric that provides excellent breathability while also being waterproof.
Else, fly rugs form an excellent choice for horses that are primarily troubled by insects. These rugs feature a fine mesh that prevents insects from reaching the horse’s skin while ensuring ample air circulation.
Cooler rugs, on the other hand, are best suited to help a horse cool down after exercise, preventing rapid temperature drops which could lead to chills.
Essential Features to Consider when Buying Summer Horse Rugs
When scouring through the market for a summer horse rug, there are some key features you must look for. Firstly, the rug must provide optimum UV protection to safeguard your horse from harmful sun rays. Next, breathability is a key factor – the rug needs to be porous enough to allow heat to escape, preventing your horse from overheating.
Another crucial point to consider is the fitting. An ill-fitted rug can cause your horse discomfort and even lead to injuries. Durability is another important feature to look out for since you would not want to invest in a rug that doesn’t withstand the extreme summers.
Top-Rated Summer Horse Rugs
Weather-beaten Comfited Essential Mesh II are some top-rated summer horse rugs for sale, hailed for their superior features. These rugs are appraised for their breathable fabric, thorough coverage, and durability, making them worth the investment. They offer an excellent balance of quality, durability, and affordability. Each of these rugs offers its unique advantages, giving you the flexibility to choose as per your horse’s specific needs.
How to Size and Fit a Summer Horse Rug
Selecting the right size and ensuring proper fitting of the horse rug is key to its effective functioning. Start by accurately measuring the horse from the middle of the chest, along the side, to the rear. Various brands offer specific sizing guides that can be helpful. Make sure there is ample room for the horse to move freely and comfortably with the rug on. A good fit should allow enough space for your hand to easily slide under the rug at the chest and along the withers.
Maintain and Care for Your Horse Rug
Proper maintenance and care of your horse rug are crucial to elongate its life. It’s important to regularly clean your rug, following the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions. Any minor repairs should be addressed immediately to prevent them from turning into big damages. Lastly, storing the rug properly when not in use is essential to maintain its condition.
Conclusion
Selecting a suitable summer horse rug is undeniably crucial for your horse’s comfort and health during the hot summers. This guide serves as an exhaustive resource, covering all aspects of summer horse rugs for sale right from understanding their need, identifying top-quality features, fitting them right, and ensuring their long life.
