The horse’s body can wear down from years of racing, traveling, and hard work, so it is crucial to provide them with the utmost care and protection. Additionally, while horses have the innate ability to control their internal temperatures, it is still a good idea to provide them with some assistance. Using a good and right rug is among the most beneficial preparations you can make for your horse before a race.
Keep your horse protected and healthy throughout the year, regardless of the climate. Horse rugs safeguard against the elements, such as frost, torrential downpours, sun, and bugs, which can harm the horse. They will ensure that your horse is always content and comfortable, regardless of the weather. Some of the top rug choices for your horse before a race are as follows:
Fleece Rugs
When traveling with your horse in a horsebox or trailer, a rug such as the Kentucky fleece rug brings comfort to your horse. When your horse gets hot and sweaty during a ride or after a race, a fleece cooler rug is one of the best cares to give. Light, flexible, and breathable fleece horse rugs are ideal for milder climates that require protection from the elements. In addition, they assist in cooling the horse down after activity by drawing moisture away from its body.
Turnout Rugs
Much like fleece rugs, turnout rugs also help to protect the horse from harsh weather elements while providing warmth at the same time. They come in a wide range of thicknesses and weights, and the modern ones are available with various neck attachments or built-in neck covering to keep the horse clean and warm. Turnout rugs are waterproof.
Stable Rugs
Stable rugs, much like turnout rugs, are available in various weights. The stable rug that will work best for your horse will vary depending on the climate, the breed of horse, and the clipping. If you own a thoroughbred with a full body clip, you will want to provide them with a rug that will keep them warm and comfortable. A horse without clipping only needs a light stable rug or none.
Exercise Rugs
If you want to take your horse for exercise before the big race, you might need an exercise rug to cover the back and hindquarters. An exercise sheet or rug helps keep the horse’s large muscle regions warm and dry during exercise, regardless of the weather. They are breathable and wick away sweat, allowing for an acceptable range of movement. Reflective stripes are a common safety element on many types of exercise sheets.
Fly Rugs
If you are racing during the warmer mobs, you must protect your horse from bug bites and irritations. A fly rug will be a great idea to keep off the nasty flies and midges during the warmer. Fly rugs are lightweight, highly breathable, and made especially for dry weather. They are also available with UV protection.
Wrapping Up
If you want the best for your horse before a race, one of the best ways to do that is to provide it with a suitable rug. However, remember that rugs are as different as horses, and what suits one might be the same for the next. If you need to know what rug best suits your horse, ask the experts for help.
Photo, Ernie Belmonte, Past The Wire, Justique galloping
