Blanket Dos & Don'ts

Follow these tips to keep your horse warm and cozy this winter.

- ELIZABETH MOYER

Horse blankets can make a fun fashion statement, especially if your horse looks cute in plaid or has a color-coordinated H wardrobe. However, a blanket's main purpose is to keep a horse warm and dry. Always remember that blanketing needs to be appropriate for your horse's health, living situation and the weather conditions.

Another thing to remember is that many horses do just fine without being blanketed! If they are healthy, have access to shelter from wind, rain and snow, and grow a nice fluffy winter coat, they can manage quite well.

Blankets are necessary for horses that have been body clipped. Senior horses, thin horses and those with health problems may also benefit from being blanketed in winter weather conditions. Some horses just don't grow a thick coat and could use the extra warmth. If you ride frequently throughout the winter, blanketing your horse can keep him clean and cut down on grooming time.

If you blanket, you must be committed to daily care to make sure he is safe and comfortable. Here are some dos and don'ts to keep in mind.

DO make sure your horse's blanket fits properly.

Getting the correct size blanket and checking the fit is very important. A poorly fitting blanket can cause rubs and sores if it's too tight. Horses car also get tangled up in a blanket that is too big or straps that dangle too long and loose.

To find your horse's blanket size, measure the side of his body from the center of his chest to his tail. (It's helpful to have a friend to lend a hand with this!) The number of inches is your horse's blanket size.