Keeping your horse comfortable and safe is maybe the most important aspect of horse ownership. Whether your horse lives at the paddock, the stable, or travels to shows, the right equipment comes in handy. Guarding is more than just keeping your horse warm. It’s about keeping them dry from the weather, supported in what they’re doing and cared for in a way that adds to their long-term health.
Rain Sheets
Rain sheets are an essential item of horse equipment, especially in areas where wet weather conditions are common. Unlike heavier blankets, quality horse rain sheets are designed to keep your horse dry but not provide them with much extra heat. Not only will a good quality rain sheet keep your horse rain-free, but also dry them out, which is excellent if they are turned out in muddy paddocks.
Quality is important when it comes to rain sheets. There are those made of tough 900D ripstop polyester, a tough and tearable material. Horses are tough on equipment, so a material that can survive being used every day is needed. Waterproof and breathable materials are also essential. Even though you would like your horse to stay dry, it’s also important that heat and moisture don’t get trapped inside. This prevents your horse from being sweaty and hot under the sheet.
Adaptability is yet another great feature in modern horse rain sheets. There are designs with a removable hood, giving you the option of including a full cover when it’s exceptionally wet outside, or taking it off when the weather outside is not so wet. Being linear-compatible is yet another benefit, where you can include or exclude a linear depending on the temperature.
This kind of flexibility saves you from having to purchase multiple sheets per season, so it’s cost-effective. The fit of the rain sheet is equally as important as its material. Dig around for such details as crossed surcingles, leg arches, and leg strap compatibility, all of which enable the sheet to remain in place yet allow your horse to move freely. A straight front closure secures with a quick fastening and snug fit over the chest.
Don’t overlook the tail flap, either, since it offers extra protection from wind and rain, drying your horse’s hindquarters. Overall, a great rainsheet for horses is an effective and efficient way of keeping your horse clean and healthy in wet weather. It saves on grooming time, prevents chills and keeps your horse dry and clean even in less-than-ideal conditions.
Blankets
When it gets cold, rain sheets are not sufficient. Blankets are made to be warm and vary in weight according to the insulation your horse requires. Light, medium, and heavy blankets provide the convenience of selecting one that is suitable for the time of year and the natural coat thickness of your horse. The blanket must be well-fitting, secure and simple to put on and remove. Like rain sheets, waterproof and breathable materials are also a requirement if the blanket is intended for outdoor use.
Horse Boots
Protecting the horse’s legs is another critical aspect of care. Horse boots provide support during exercise and protection from bumping, brushing, or overreaching. Boots come in different types, including brushing boots, tendon boots, and bell boots, with each boot designed to protect a specific area of the leg.
Grooming Tools
No horse care program is complete without grooming tools. Not only is grooming about keeping your horse clean and looking good, but it also has positive effects on their health. Regular brushing increases circulation, keeps the coat and skin healthy, and allows you to catch injuries or abnormalities in your horse’s body early.
Some necessary tools are brushes, curry combs, and hoof picks. All of them have a job, such as removing dirt, loosening hair, or keeping hooves healthy. Grooming can also be bonding, helping you and your horse grow more trusting of each other while allowing them to unwind.
Treats
All horses love a treat, and they’re not just a luxury you can use to spoil your horse. Treats are an excellent training tool, helping to reinforce good manners on the ride or when being handled. They can also be a nice reward for your horse when they’ve been exercised.
Supplements
Diet plays an enormous role in the maintenance of a healthy horse, and sometimes their regular feed isn’t enough to cover all of their nutritional needs. Supplements can help with everything from joint health to coat condition, digestion and overall performance.
For example, horses in heavy work may benefit from joint supplements, while others might need vitamins or minerals that their pasture lacks. Before introducing supplements, it’s a good idea to talk with your vet or equine nutritionist to ensure you’re choosing the right ones for your horse.
In Summary
Caring for a horse involves more than just feeding and riding. Adequate protection comes in many forms, from the physical comfort of rain sheets and blankets to the preventative support of boots, grooming and supplements. Even small touches like treats contribute to your horse’s overall happiness and health. By investing in the right essentials, you’re not just keeping your horse safe; you’re also giving them the chance to thrive in every season and situation.
