Effects Of Ill Fitting Horse Rugs

This makes for an uncomfortable ride for the horse and can restrict his ability to use his back effectively.

Effects of ill fitting horse rugs. High wither a very lean build etc. The straps should be tight enough to hold the rug in place but not so tight that they cause the rug s shape to distort on the horse s back. Listen to what your horse is trying to tell you. There should be no tightness or it will rub your horse s shoulders and withers.

The rug should fit well over the withers and the shoulders so that the horse can move freely without the rug slipping back. Most often the rug size used is incorrect or the horse has features which make them more susceptible to pressure point marks e g. To minimise problems waterproof your rugs every season. A poorly fitted rug can cause discomfort and rubbing so it is important to fit your weatherbeeta rug correctly.

Also in heavy rainwater may run inside the neckline or through stitched areas such as binding and cross surcingles. If you stop causing pain or allowing it to be caused. Rub sores are caused by a combination of one or all of the following. Lumps and bumps appearing on the back in the saddle area.

Modern fabrics are very waterproof however horses may sweat up inside rugs if they are too warm and cause dampness on the inside. Rather than distributing your weight across your horse s back a saddle that is too wide may sit right on your horse s withers or even on his lower back. If you re not sure what you should be checking follow our five simple points to ensure your horse is comfortable and safe. Inflammation lumps and abrasions in the saddle and girth area white hairs around the saddle area commonly seen on both sides of the withers bare patches and pressure sores at the back of where the saddle sits.

Cartilage chipping nerve pinching subluxated vertebrae tongue problems to mention only a few can result in further behavioural and even psychological damage to the horse which will make it almost impossible for horse and rider to find harmony. A poorly fitting saddle may put pressure directly on your horse s spine. If the horse s negative reaction is still a direct response to pain or discomfort as a result of the bridle or unsympathetic handling when putting the bridle on or off then this reaction will change pretty much as soon as the source of the problem does i e. A rug that fits correctly should cover your horse s body well.

Also a rug that s too big may slip causing discomfort and can be dangerous. Pressure on your horse s skin from ill fitting and or dirty rugs.