When it comes to keeping your horse warm and comfortable during the cold winter months, finding the right blanket is essential. But how do you know what size blanket your horse needs? This article will provide you with helpful tips and advice on how to determine the right blanket size for your horse.
Measuring Your Horse
The first step in finding the right blanket size for your horse is to accurately measure them. This should be done in three separate areas: the length, the chest circumference, and the drop.
Length: To measure your horse’s length, use a measuring tape and measure from the center of your horse’s chest to the base of their tail.
Chest Circumference: To measure your horse’s chest circumference, use a measuring tape and measure around the largest part of your horse’s chest.
Drop: To measure your horse’s drop, use a measuring tape and measure from the center of your horse’s chest to the center of their neck.
Understanding Blanket Sizing
Once you’ve taken the measurements of your horse, you’ll need to understand how blanket sizes are determined. Blanket sizes are typically determined by a combination of the horse’s length and drop measurements. Most blankets are available in sizes ranging from 69 to 84 inches, with some blankets going up to 87 inches.
When selecting a blanket size, it’s important to keep in mind that the blanket should fit your horse snugly but not too tightly. If the blanket is too tight, it can cause discomfort and restrict your horse’s movement.
Choosing the Right Weight
In addition to finding the right size, you’ll also need to choose the right weight for your horse’s blanket. Blankets are typically available in light, medium, and heavy weights, with each weight providing a different level of warmth. The right weight for your horse will depend on their size, activity level, and the temperature in your area.
For horses with a light coat or those that are very active, you may want to choose a light weight blanket. For horses with a heavy coat or those that aren’t very active, you may want to choose a medium or heavy weight blanket.
Other Considerations
When choosing a blanket for your horse, there are a few other factors to consider. For example, some blankets are designed to be waterproof or water-resistant, which is helpful for horses that spend a lot of time outdoors in wet weather.
You may also want to consider purchasing a blanket with adjustable straps or a blanket liner, which can be helpful for keeping the blanket in place and providing additional warmth.
Conclusion
Finding the right blanket size for your horse can be a challenge, but with the right measurements and understanding of blanket sizing, you can find the perfect fit. Keep in mind that the blanket should fit your horse snugly but not too tightly, and that the right weight will depend on your horse’s size, activity level, and the temperature in your area. Additionally, you may want to consider purchasing a waterproof or water-resistant blanket, or a blanket with adjustable straps or a liner for additional warmth.