Keeping Our Horse Comfortable during Extreme Weather - By: Allan Michael Taylor

Horses, just like the human beings, are capable of sensing any changes in the environment's temperature. This is not a new fact because they can also experience fever and flu. In order to keep their body temperature normal, they should be placed in a barn that is warm. But often times, horse shelters are positioned in cold barns and if this is the case, having a blanket for your house is essential.

Just like the blanket we use when we sleep, horse blankets can be made up of wool or cotton - some are thin and some are thicker and are highly water resistant.

there are two common types of horse blankets:

- The first is thick and very warm, which are suitable for a horse having a rest in the stable

- The second type is a blanket having multiple straps ideal for horses that are always outdoors.

There are also blankets that help the horses stay cool during the hot weather. Here are the other types of horse blankets:

- Cooler blankets – as mentioned above, it helps keep them cold during warm weather

- Anti-sweating blankets – just like the cooler blankets, the anti-sweating sheets helps prevent sweating and provides comfort

- Water-resistant sheets that are made to cover the horse's body as well as the saddle while raining

- Turn-out blankets with canvass shell made for bad weather condition.

- Fly sheets to protect the horse from moths and flies.

There is also a type of blanket for horses called saddlecloths that are placed under the saddle and covering the rump. Most often, the saddlecloths are made in colorful fabrics especially for horses that are trained to perform and to race. The saddlecloth's design contains the owner's insignia. However, the term 'saddlecloth' has dual meanings:
- In Australia, the term means a pad placed under the saddle
- In the United States, it means a thin and lightweight blanket placed over a heavier blanket for decorative purposes.

In British English, the saddlecloth is known as 'numnah' and its main purpose is to keep the saddle dry and clean. Nowadays, it is used to exact the fittings of the saddle
Horse blanket is one of the most ancient equipment known for riding a horse. During the ancient times, there are no saddles or bridles that can be used by a horseback rider. As time evolves, the horse blanket now serves several purposes and this purpose has brought several types of blankets in terms of material and thickness. In terms of size, this blanket comes also in various sizes for various horse sizes.

In terms of the aesthetic design, apart from the material used, owners try to include bright colors or the family or country's insignia. This depends on where the horse will be used. The blankets do not only make our horses comfortable but as well as a representation of the owner's society belongings.

About the Author

Nick Morgan has been involved with horses for most of his life. Visit the online shop where you can purchase a large selection of Horse Equipment. All horse and rider products are shipped to your door by national courier. Excellent service from one of the UK's leading Equestrian Supplies shop.

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