01/06/2025
Some relevant information regarding rugging from a rug company!!
My motto is less is more- you can always add 😉😉
In the last couple of weeks, we've found ourselves reaching for jumpers or turning heaters on. It's definitely a sign that Winter is on the way, and it's time to get prepared.
But, our horses might not be feeling the same as we are. Our Thermoneutral Zone is a much smaller range than theirs (and we're even worse without clothing!).
Horses, generally, are very capable of maintaining their body temperature with minimal effort. Their coats are designed to trap warm air, close to their bodies, by fluffing up - similar to our own 'goosebumps'.
In most cases they can manage just fine in temperatures right down to 0°c, especially if they have shelter, feed and are in a healthy condition.
Of course, not all horses are the same. Horses that are in poor condition, sickly, older, clipped or thin coated, or in heavy work, can need a little extra help keeping warm.
Rain and wind can also be huge factors, and additional protection from the elements can be needed.
For weather similar to what we are experiencing in Victoria currently (cold nights, mild days, no rain) a light layer overnight will be suitable to keep the chill off their backs.
