11 Steps to Horse Blanket Satisfaction

Just like people clothing, different horse blanket brands and styles suit different horses. So, ask friends with a horse with a similar build to yours what they use, also call the customer service toll-free number and ask one of the experts there.
Check out how to measure for THAT PARTICULAR BRAND! Brands vary in the way they want you to measure, so don't assume that they are all the same. The same goes for blankets for dogs!
Make sure that you can return the blanket if it doesn't fit your horse ... but see the next comment!
Try the new blanket a clean horse and over a fly sheet or other thin sheet, so it doesn't get dirty. Walk your horse around and make sure he has plenty of freedom of movement. Lots of the new style blankets have gussets and built in darts that offer much more freedom of movement - so if you have a spirited horse, pick a blanket that has these.
Is the blanket easy for you to take on and off? The newer blankets are much lighter, made of light-weight fabrics that wick away moisture. Are the fastenings easy for you to use? Can you manage them with one hand?
Choose an appropriate weight blanket for your horse ... if anything err on a little cold rather than a little hot. Think of where you live, whether he is clipped or not, how much weight he carries, how active he is. If he is out all day and is fully clipped, you might want to consider a full neck and if you live in a windy area a tail flap might be nice too, as well as a deeper blanket that covers him more.
If your horse is active when turned out, or loves to roll - get a blanket with removeable, adjustable legstraps. That gives you the ability to take them off or adjust them.
If you have have a horse that gets into mischief, consider getting a blanket with a Ripstop or ballistic fabric - but remember, if he really gets in to trouble, ALL blankets are designed to give and even rip - for your horse's safety.
Remember, your horse doesn't know what he looks like out there! There are any number of fun colors, barn colors, classic colors to choose from ... a different color might make him stand out from the crowd. Bringing in the horse "with the green blanket" might get you your horse - or not!
Many blankets come with reflective strips so that you can see them easier in the dark.
Remember, that the most expensive, is not necessarily the best choice. Sometimes, a couple of different weight blankets and a layering under sheet can make sense too.- We would like to hear what your favorite blankets are and the kind of weather conditions you use them in.- Any wish lists for the blanket manufacturers?- Any tips on blanket care?

After 22 SerendipsTadpole posted @ 2:11 PM 0 comments