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Selecting the perfect horse rug

A fly rug, or fly sheet, protects your horse from stinging and biting flies. Turnout rugs give your horses protection from the cold, if they're at pasture during colder weather.

Author: Tom Jackson
Date: Feb 1, 2010 - 8:51:38 AM

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There are quite a few various kinds of horse rugs, and each one has its own functions and characteristics. You'll need to choose the most appropriate rugs that will work the best on your horse, depending on his activity level and the weather conditions.
 
A fly rug, or fly sheet, protects your horse from stinging and biting flies. They are usually made from a mesh or a fabric that allows the rug to breathe, so that your horse doesn't become overly hot. They are usually sold in lighter colors, too, so that they reflect the sun's light upward rather then drawing heat in.  You can also buy fly masks for your friend, to keep the flies from buzzing about his head and face. Some fly masks have ears, and some do not. The newer types have two attaching Velcro strips instead of one, so that your horse won't lose his fly mask, either in bushes or while playing with his pals.
 
Turnout rugs give your horses protection from the cold, if they're at pasture during colder weather. They come with various amounts of insulation, to be used depending on the temperature. Lightweight waterproof turnouts may be perfect for Spring and Fall turnout when the weather is rainy or windy. Rugs with more fill will work better in extreme conditions. A waterproof turnout rug is important if your horse will be out in foul weather – otherwise, he could get wet and become chilled.  
 
Coolers work to help your horse dry out, usually after being ridden or shown. The materials wick moisture away, and protect him from chills while he cools off and his sweat dries.  
 
A rain sheet is usually fairly thin, and used to keep your horse dry when he is out in the rain. They also protect your horse on windy days.
 
New Zealand rugs have been around a long time, and they are made from waxed canvas. They give your horse limited warmth, but they break the wind and keep your horse dry very well. Make sure that you re-wax them as recommended by the manufacturer.

If your horse is rambunctious when he's out to pasture, make sure to find him rugs with leg straps or body straps, so that he doesn't rub his rug off when he rolls or plays.

View all articles by Tom Jackson

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