Even a high-quality winter blanket can cause injury if it doesn’t fit well or isn’t adjusted properly. Answer these five questions to reduce your horse’s chance of having a blanket-related problem.  

1. Are you using the appropriate type of blanket? Blankets intended for turnout are typically lined with slicker fabrics than those intended only for stable use. The slick lining keeps the blankets from shifting as an active horse moves under them, reducing the risk of straps being pulled out of position.

2. Does the blanket fit?  A blanket that is too large or too small will be pulled out of position, taking any straps with it. Remember that straps cannot compensate for an ill-fitting blanket.

3. Are the belly straps attached in the arrangement—crossed under the belly or not—directed by the manufacturer? Deviating from the manufacturer’s recommendations risks leaving dangerous gaps that a hoof can slip through or stressing the fabric, which can lead to tearing. If you are unsure of how to attach the straps, contact the manufacturer to confirm the intended arrangement.

Click here for tips on preventing winter weight loss in horses.

4. Are the straps adjusted properly? Make sure belly straps hang no more than four inches below the horse’s body and you can slip  no more than a single mittened hand between the chest strap and your horse. Larger gaps risk hoof entrapment when the horse lies down. Straps that are too tight will not only be uncomfortable for the horse, but can tear fabric.

5.  Are you using hind leg straps? Straps that pass around a horse’s hind legs pose the greatest entanglement risk. If your horse’s blanket stays put without these straps, you may want to remove them entirely. 

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