Tuesday, March 11, 2014

Amigo Horse Rugs Do The Job Right

By Kendra Hood


Owners are finding that Amigo horse rugs provide excellent value for money. Most horses and ponies have at least one rug and often more. It really depends on how much work the animal is required to do and weather on not they live outside. Many people like to keep their animals stabled in the cold, wet winter months as they stay clean and it cuts down dramatically on grooming time.

Show horses need an extensive wardrobe of blankets, coolers and rugs. They need to look their best at all times and really stand out in the show ring. Having the right types of rug for each occasion is crucial. During the winter horses will need a warm, water proof turnout rug. This must be made of material that is strong as horses do tend to play rough and can easily snag their blankets on a fence.

During the summer months a show animal will still need a rug. The basic is an everyday stable sheet that is light and easy to wash. The main purpose of this is to keep the dust and flies off the horses back. They will also need a lightweight turn out sheet to keep the sun from bleaching their coat. A cooler to throw on after they work is also important for warding off chills and keeping them clean.

One of the best factors about the new style turnout rug is that it is waterproof. It is important to really read the package carefully as some lighter models are merely wind and rain resistant. These are perfect for horses who only goes out in fine weather. However, for an animal who stays out most of the time a truly waterproof rug is necessary. Although they cost a little more it is well worth it to have the peace of mind that the animal is dry and comfortable.

When horses are wet or damp too often they can develop a host of skin conditions. Many of these render the animal unfit for riding and lead to serious disappointment. It is heartbreaking to train for a competition only to miss it because the horse has a fungal infection known as rain rot. Keeping them dry at all times typically eliminates this type of problem.

The traditional front buckles have been replaced with an overlapping Velcro fastener which is easy to use especially on cold days. It also eliminates the pressure that was a problem with the older styles. The rug is held in place by simple straps called surcingles that cross under the horses belly. Again they do not cause any pressure points and are easy to use.

The new Amigo designs also help to prevent stress and pressure on the animal. They are cut in a much more generous way and specially contoured to fit the animal properly. Horses are very active animals and are practically never still. The rug must fit well and not move around too much. Thick Velcro fasteners and well designed leg straps help to keep the rug in place despite rolling and running around the field.

The Amigo brand is available in many local retail outlets. Riders and owners should check with their local tack store. Alternatively they can shop on line and have the new rug shipped to their home or barn.




About the Author:



No comments:

Post a Comment